Athens County Invasive Exotics Control Program | |
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| Autumn olive is easy to recognize from the silvery undersides of the leaves and the grayish-green upper surfaces. Large plants growing together and forming thorns may create an almost impenetrable thicket. The birds eat the dark berries and spread the species by seed through their feces. Like multiflora rose, this was formerly heavily promoted as a conservation planting, much to our detriment. There are still state tree nurseries growing this plant; even Ohio was until recently. These are difficult plants to remove. | |
Eradication tips:Smaller plants should be pulled. Larger plants should be killed by cutting the woody stems close to the ground and applying concentrated herbicide to the cut surfaces. | |