If you’ve noticed fast-growing shrubs with bright red berries and fragrant white or yellow flowers crowding your yard or nearby woods, chances are you’ve encountered invasive bush honeysuckle. While it may look pretty at first glance, this plant is a major threat to Missouri’s landscapes — and now is the time to take action.
Why Bush Honeysuckle is So Invasive
Bush honeysuckle species like Amur honeysuckle and Morrow honeysuckle spread aggressively, quickly outcompeting native plants for sunlight, water, and nutrients. Their dense thickets shade out wildflowers, young trees, and shrubs, reducing biodiversity and leaving little room for beneficial native plants to thrive.
The University of Missouri Extension warns that invasive honeysuckles can also contribute to increased tick populations. Their dense growth provides ideal habitat for small mammals like mice, which are carriers for ticks. More honeysuckle often means more ticks — and greater risk to people and pets.
The Right Time for Removal is Now
Late summer into fall is one of the best times to remove bush honeysuckle. The shrubs stay green longer than most native plants, making them easier to identify. Treating them now ensures they don’t get a head start in spring, breaking the cycle of regrowth.
At Blue Sparrow, we provide professional brush clearing and invasive species management. Simply pulling honeysuckle won’t work, and common herbicides like Roundup won’t kill it. Proper management requires selective herbicides and careful removal techniques to stop honeysuckle at the root.
Alternatives to Plant Instead
If you love honeysuckle but want to avoid the invasive varieties, MU Extension suggests planting fragrant honeysuckle or goldflame honeysuckle, which are non-invasive and beautiful options for Missouri landscapes.
Take Back Your Property
Don’t let invasive bush honeysuckle take over your yard or commercial property. Proactive management not only restores native beauty but also creates a healthier environment for people and wildlife.
Call Blue Sparrow today to schedule honeysuckle removal and protect your property’s natural balance.