Honeysuckle Removal

If you have been to our parks recently, you may have noticed that some of the "trees" are being removed. Those are actually the highly invasive species, honeysuckle. In order to preserve our native trees and plants, these invasive plants must be removed. The Parks and Recreation Department and the Crestwood Beautification Committee are working to remove this invasive species in our local parks and restore the native landscape of these parks.

What is Bush Honeysuckle?

Bush Honeysuckle (Lonicera maackii) is one of the most destructive invasive species in the St. Louis region. This thug of a plant is native to the Asian continent and does not belong in any of our native habitats. It crowds out desirable native plants by outcompeting them for light, water and nutrients, the berries provide poor nutrition for birds, and it threatens the future of our native woodlands.  In addition, non-native honeysuckle increases tick and mosquito abundance in areas where it's allowed to grow.

If you encounter honeysuckle on your property, it's recommended that you take action to remove and eradicate the plant as completely as possible. There are multiple effective methods of removing bush honeysuckle. Selecting the right approach depends upon a number of factors, such as the area covered by the invasion, the size of the plants to be removed, and your personal capabilities and preferences. 

For more information about honeysuckle, including various removal methods, please visit the Missouri Botanical Garden website at: https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/gardens-gardening/gardening-in-st.-louis/invasives/bush-honeysuckle.aspx

Other information on honeysuckle removal and native plant conservation is also available here from the Missouri Department of Conservation. 

"Honeysuckle Hacks" 2022

Prior to the pandemic, the City of Crestwood and the Beautification Committee embraced an initiative to remove invasive honeysuckle throughout the park system and all city-owned properties. However, this is an ongoing project that is always looking for volunteers. We have several events coming up this spring where we’re seeking volunteers to help with our removal efforts. 

All events will be held from 9 AM – Noon with tools and gloves provided. Volunteers should wear boots or other closed-toe shoes and bring a water bottle.

SAVE THE DATE!

November 12th 9am -12pm 

Crestwood Park