CONCORD TWP., Mich. (News 10) – An invasive vine capable of smothering trees and other vegetation has been confirmed in Jackson County, according to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.
The discovery marks the first known detection of mile-a-minute weed in the county. A property owner reported the vine through the Michigan Invasive Species Program using the Midwest Invasive Species Information Network’s online reporting system.
The mile-a-minute weed vine is distinguished by its triangular leaves and recurved barbs along the stems.(April Savickas, BCK CISMA)
Mile-a-minute weed grows clusters of pea-sized fruit that can be various shades of blue to purple(April Savickas, BCK CISMA)
The report was confirmed after staff with the Jackson, Lenawee and Washtenaw Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area visited the site and found several patches of the plant.
The infestation is located in Concord Township, about 4 miles from the Whitehouse Nature Center and less than 2 miles from the nearest known mile-a-minute weed population in Calhoun County.
The DNR said the vine’s rapid growth and ability to climb trees make it difficult to control with traditional herbicide treatments. Although mile-a-minute weed is an annual plant, its berries produce seeds that can survive in the soil for up to six years and are spread by birds, wildlife and human activity.
The vine can be removed by hand, but the DNR said infested areas should be monitored regularly because of the plant’s ability to regrow from long-lasting seeds.
The fast-growing vine can overtake native plants and landscaped vegetation, eventually smothering trees and shrubs beneath dense, prickly growth.
No additional infestations have been identified in Jackson County.
The DNR said herbicide treatment began shortly after the infestation was confirmed. Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area staff will continue monitoring the site and work with the property owner on follow-up treatment.
Anyone who believes they have found mile-a-minute weed is encouraged to review identification information on the Michigan Invasive Species website. If the plant appears to be mile-a-minute weed, officials ask people to take photos, note the location and report the sighting.
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