While woody plants — like juniper and mesquite species — have always been a feature of grasslands and woodland savannas in the plains, they were kept in check naturally by frequent fires. Without the regular use of fire, grassland areas are quickly becoming shrublands, and even woodlands, with mesquite invading to the south and west, and eastern redcedar invading further north and east. By controlling invasive woody plants, landowners and producers can maintain grazing lands, create high quality wildlife habitat, and protect it from more frequent and intense wildfires.
The first step in selecting the correct management practice is to be knowledgeable about the woody plant species on your land and know the times they are weakest and most susceptible to control. Many of the woody species are best controlled when immature. They also require less time and money to remove at that stage of maturity. As with most growing plants, these species often look different as they mature. Being able to identify invasive woody species and remove them at first sight is a critical step in stopping encroachment and maintaining healthy grasslands.
Below is a list of species identified by Kansas and Oklahoma producers that can be problematic and may require management to keep them from encroaching on grasslands. While many of these plants are native and appropriate in certain landscapes, in some circumstances they can become overabundant and reduce grassland quality for wildlife and livestock. For each species, you’ll see a summary of which management practices work best and links to information on how to identify the plant.
- Eastern redcedar is best managed using a combination of mechanical removal, prescribed fire, and chemical control. For plant identification and other information, visit Oklahoma State University and Kansas State University.
- Saltcedar is especially difficult to control because it can sprout from either the root crown or remaining plant fragments. It is easiest to control when plants are young and can be hand-pulled before they spread. Herbicides can be effective for larger infestations, but some plants may regrow and require additional application. For plant identification and other information, visit Oklahoma State University and the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks.
- Mesquite is best managed through mechanical and chemical control. In many situations, it’s impossible to eradicate mesquite completely; however, managing it is possible. If mesquite seedlings can be treated before establishment, it will cost significantly less. For plant identification and other information, visit Oklahoma State University.
- Yucca is best controlled using chemicals, digging, and mowing. Producers have found success controlling unwanted yucca stands by spraying herbicides. Treating individual plants instead of using a broadcast herbicide treatment works best. For plant identification and other information, visit Oklahoma State University and Kansas State University.
- Coralberry, also known locally as buckbrush, can be managed with prescribed fire, especially if the burn is done in the late spring. Some producers have noted that reducing the buckbrush stand may take continual burning for a few years. Herbicides can also be effective. For plant identification and other information, visit Oklahoma State University and Kansas State University.
- Honey Locust can be controlled through fire and herbicides. Cutting young trees without additional management, such as fire or herbicide, is not advised as it results in excessive re-sprouting. For plant identification and other information, visit Oklahoma State University and Kansas State University.
- Smooth sumac is best controlled with either mechanical or chemical methods; it is not affected by spring burning. While fire can top kill the plant, it will also cause a vigorous resprouting of the stem with a higher density. For plant identification and other information, visit Oklahoma State University and Kansas State University.
- Sand sagebrush is best managed through prescribed fire, grazing, chemical control, and mechanical control. For plant identification and other information, visit Oklahoma State University.
Learn more about woody encroachment at Working Lands for Wildlife and University of Nebraska-Lincoln websites.