Bittersweet Plant

Bittersweet Plant: A Thorny Issue for Gardeners

Bittersweet: Invasive Vine or Beloved Ornamental?

Bittersweet is a beautiful vine with showy red berries in the fall. But it's also an invasive species that can be difficult to control. Native to Eurasia, bittersweet was introduced to North America in the early 1800s. It quickly spread throughout the continent, and is now found in every state except Alaska.

Bittersweet is a fast-growing vine, and can quickly smother other plants. It's also allelopathic, which means it releases chemicals that inhibit the growth of other plants. This can make it difficult to control bittersweet in natural areas. Additionally, bittersweet berries are poisonous to birds and other animals.

Controlling Bittersweet

There are several ways to control bittersweet:

• Hand-pulling: This is the most effective method, but it can be time-consuming and labor-intensive. To hand-pull bittersweet, grab the vine at the base and pull it up by the roots. Be sure to remove all of the roots, or the vine will grow back.
• Cutting: You can also cut bittersweet vines down to the ground. However, this method is not as effective as hand-pulling, as the vine will often grow back from the roots.
• Herbicides: There are several herbicides that are effective against bittersweet. However, be sure to use herbicides according to the label directions, as they can be harmful to other plants and animals.

Uses for Bittersweet

Despite its invasive nature, bittersweet can be a valuable plant in the garden. The berries can be used to make jams, jellies, and other products. The vines can be used to make wreaths and other decorations. And the leaves can be used to make tea.

If you're considering planting bittersweet in your garden, be sure to do your research and be prepared to take steps to control its growth. With proper care, bittersweet can be a beautiful and beneficial addition to your landscape.

Additional Information

For more information on bittersweet, please visit the following websites:

• Invasive Plant Atlas
• Washington State Noxious Weed Control Board
• Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation