Invasive Plant Control
PlantWise is successful in controlling invasives in a wide variety of settings. We have more than 25 years of experience in the field and are called upon to teach weed control techniques throughout Michigan.
Invasive species have been present in the Upper Midwest since the time of European settlement. Invasives outcompete plants native to a community and in so doing, gradually reduce the diversity of that site.
While many plants are not native to our area, it’s only a small subset that are actually invasive and become truly problematic to our local landscapes. We focus on these species in an effort to maximize biodiversity on your site.
PlantWise utilizes the techniques that combine the highest level of effectiveness while creating the least harm to the native landscapes.
Before Shrub Removal
We use a variety of techniques including:
- Chemical control (such as boom spraying, backpack sprayer applications, cut stump treatment, and hand-swiping)
- Prescribed fire
- Hand-pulling or digging
- Repeated, carefully timed cutting or mowing
After Shrub Removal
While we:
- Work with a landowner’s desires and needs
- Work in a diligent, cost-effective manner
- Target weeds during the time of year when they are most susceptible
- Choose the least toxic chemicals based on the site in question
Success Story
Arcadia Marsh Restoration
Stewardship Initiative
During the last 24 years, we have had many successful invasive plant control efforts. In recent years, we’ve been working with the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy on their 155-acre Great Lakes Coastal Marsh located in Arcadia, MI. For three years, we worked with the Conservancy staff and volunteers to remove marsh invaders such as reed canary grass, Phragmites, and narrow-leaved cattails to improve habitat for the native marsh plant and bird species that grow and live there (more than 150 bird species use this marsh!). Invasive plant control was part of a larger effort in which we collected and sowed native seed and used prescribed fire to assist with the marsh’s restoration.
“We are grateful to work with a company like PlantWise who cares so deeply about the land, and has the knowledge and skill set needed for multi-faceted restoration projects”
Angie Lucas
Land Steward, Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy
