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If you have kudzu on your property, you better control it quickly. This prolific, noxious weed (Pueraria lobata) is a native of Japan and was introduced to the United States in the late 1800s for stabilizing soil, feeding livestock, and as an ornamental vine.

This opportunistic plant continues to spread and out-compete native species and alter ecosystems. The rate of spread of kudzu is not a simple doubling, but rather exponential when left to grow unchecked. Not only will its stems grow to 95 feet and its roots down to 9 feet, but it will also grow a foot a day during the summer months.

Herbicides appear to be the best answer for control. The chemical imazapyr (Arsenal) is recommended at a rate of 3 pints per 150 gallons of water with 1 quart of surfactant. But, it costs about $400 to $450 per acre. Kudzu can also be cut at ground level and glyphosate (Roundup) applied directly to the severed stem.

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