Invasive honeysuckle threatens native forests in central Kentucky

LEXINGTON, Ky. (WKYT) - Honeysuckle, known for its white flower and nectar, is causing problems for forests across central Kentucky.

Gatewood Arnold, a volunteer with Lexington Parks and Recreation, said the plant prevents new trees from growing.

“Its a big problem because it prevents new trees from growing. It displaces all the native species that are here which means that we will eventually lose our forests and these parks,” Arnold said.

Invasive plants cover forest floors

Honeysuckle can be found throughout the Bluegrass region. It covers forest floors along with another invasive plant, wintercreeper.

Arnold said one local park, which covers 135 acres, has honeysuckle covering nearly every part of the property outside of the grass areas.

“Right here I think this a 135 acre park and outside of grass it is on every single square inch of the entire place pretty much,” Arnold said.

Plants grow back quickly

Arnold said invasive plants share the trait of growing quickly, which creates challenges when removing them from native habitats. An herbicide is typically needed to stop the plant growth.

“After you cut these down, they sprout right back up almost immediately. So not very much time at all it’ll come right back it’s like trying to cut down bamboo: its gone one week its back the next,” Arnold said.

Volunteer programs available

Arnold said many of these plants are popular for landscaping because they are difficult to kill, but efforts are underway to reduce their population.

“So Parks and Rec has some opportunities to sign up for volunteer programs. You can come out here, they will be other people out here, and you can as a team remove all invasive species from a select area,” Arnold said.

Those interested in volunteering for invasive plant removal efforts can sign up on the Lexington Parks and Recreation website under the park beautification tab.