Multiflora rose (Rosa multiflora) is an established invasive shrub in Michigan. It can be found in wetlands, forests, roadsides, and open pastures. This species is always multi-stemmed and grows upwards of 15 feet. Each leaf has 5 to 11 leaflets that are toothed along the edges. The flowers are white to pink, and fruits persist into winter. There are long thorns present along the stem that vary from green to red.
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Environmental Effects
A mature multiflora rose can produce up to 500,000 seeds each year which can live longer than a decade. This allows dense thickets to form which can prevent human and wildlife movement. Birds may not nest in the multiflora rose because of the thorns. The dense thickets also displace native species which lowers diversity.
Treatment
There are multiple treatment options for multiflora rose. These include both chemical and non-chemical methods.
NON-CHEMICAL CONTROL METHODS:
- Hand pulling: small seedlings can be uprooted by hand. They can be left where you pulled them as they should not resprout.
- Cutting/Mowing: repeated cutting or mowing can reduce the amount of plants. You should cut or mow 3 to 6 times in one growing season and repeat for up to 4 years.
CHEMICAL CONTROL METHODS:
- Foliar spraying: herbicide sprayed directly onto the foliage of the plant. This is most common for dense patches in non-sensitive areas. Treatments will need to be repeated throughout the next few years since seeds can live for up to a decade in the soil.
- Cut stump: herbicide is applied to the outer rings of a cut stem within a few minutes of cutting. This should not be done in the spring as it will not be entirely effective.