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What's the best way to dispose of larger Japanese Honeysuckle shrubs once they've been extracted? #889954

Asked November 17, 2024, 2:06 PM EST

Greetings, we're using a tractor to remove about 100 yards of large (4-8 feet tall) Japanese Honeysuckle that are growing along a dirt roadway. What is best practice for disposing of the shrubs? Is it alright to run them through a wood chipper or will this encourage regrowth? Thank you.

Washington County Vermont

Expert Response

Following up on question number 0159870, the honeysuckle we are removing isw mixed in with volunteer sumac. Should we also remove the sumac or will its presence inhibit honeysuckle regrowth?

Thank you for your expertise. 

On Sun, Nov 17, 2024 at 2:06 PM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:

Dear Lindsey,

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YOUR QUESTION #0159870:

What's the best way to dispose of larger Japanese Honeysuckle shrubs once they've been extracted?

Greetings, we're using a tractor to remove about 100 yards of large (4-8 feet tall) Japanese Honeysuckle that are growing along a dirt roadway. What is best practice for disposing of the shrubs? Is it alright to run them through a wood chipper or will this encourage regrowth? Thank you.

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The Question Asker Replied November 17, 2024, 2:15 PM EST

Good evening Lindsey

Japanese honeysuckle can regrow from small fragments of stems or roots. If you chip the plants and use the mulch, especially in areas with soil contact, there's a significant risk of sprouting. If you must chip the material, ensure the chips are thoroughly composted (hot composting) to kill any viable plant material.

Burning the honeysuckle is an effective way to completely destroy the plant material, including seeds and roots, preventing regrowth. Check local regulations regarding open burning to ensure compliance. 

There is a great article here for removing the honeysuckle.


Thank you

Sean Warner, UVM Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Replied November 20, 2024, 5:41 PM EST

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