Vines

Question: Hello, we bought our house in November and there are extremely grown out vines. We were told that if they were invasive, we might be able to get them removed for free. Either way, we need to know the best way to rid of it completely or get it under control

responder: Thank you for your question!   Laura S.      Michigan State University Extension Advanced Master Gardener Volunteer You may also contact the toll free MSU Extension lawn and garden hotline at 1-888-678-3464 with your gardening questions or visit www.migarden.msu.edu for Smart Gardening resources. Replied May 10, 2023, 8:43 PM EDT
response: Hello Renee The picture is too blurry to ID the vine.  Would you please clip a branch off, about 15-18 inches long, that has sprouted leaves and buds on it? ( leave the tip of the branch on so we can see those end buds, it helps with ID) Place it on a plain sheet of paper, in good light( outdoors is good) and take a picture about 8-10 inches away? Please attach it to this thread and we will try to ID it for you.   To add pictures, click the link in your email and go into your question on the website. Click the “Drop files here or choose them” below the response box to attach them.  You can upload .jpg, .png, .gif, .txt, or .pdf.  NOTE- each picture must be 8mb or less.  With positive ID we can recommend research-based options for you.  There may be Conservation District free training on how to remove invasive plants on your property.

responder: The Question Asker Replied May 11, 2023, 2:50 PM EDT
response: Sorry I didn't realize the far away pic was blurry. I've attached a few more up close, clearer pics. Let me know if these are sufficient.

responder: Thank you for your question!  Replied May 11, 2023, 5:47 PM EDT
response: Hello Renee Thank you for the additional photos. The middle one came out clear. This is a native vine, Virginia Creeper, Parthenocissus quinquefolia. It is not invasive, but it is an aggressive native vine and something many would call a “garden thug.” Therefore, you will not find any grants to help, or Conservation groups who will remove it for you.  https://www.canr.msu.edu/resources/virginia-creeper-parthenocissus-quinquefolia To remove it you can use a systemic herbicide. Start by cutting most of a section’s top growth away, then immediately paint the stumps with herbicide such as glyphosate or triclopyr(these are the active ingredients in many garden “brush killer” products). Then move on to another section. If you wait too long to paint the stumps, the plant cells will have ‘closed off’ and won’t absorb as much of the herbicide. https://extension.unl.edu/statewide/morrill/panhandle-perspectives-wild-cucumber-and-virginia-creeper-threaten-trees-shrubs/ If you do not want to use herbicde, you can cut it to the ground and dig out as many toots as you can. Then monitor for new sprouts and hoe, mow or continue to dig them out. Since your plants are extensive, this will take some time and effort, probably over a few seasons. There is much seed in your soil, so new sprouts from seed and roots left behind will need to be removed or treated. Please read and follow all label precautions and directions on any garden product you use.