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Noxious Weed: Multiflora Rose

May 18, 2017 12:00 AM
By: Emily Demsey

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​A shrub that transforms into a thorny thicket, multiflora rose tends to grow almost anywhere because birds move and drop the seeds. Because of this, pastures and meadows can be taken over by this widespread bush. Sound familiar? If so, here is how you can help to manage and control this weed!

Physical description:

  • Barbed stems
  • Can grow up to 10 feet tall and 10 feet wide
  • The rose can behave like a vine and grow up to 20 feet tall, if near trees
  • Can have seven to nine leaflets 
  • If stems touch the ground, they can take root

Eradication tips:

  • Herbicide:
    • Applied to rose foliage or stems during flowering stage
  • Mow and stump treatment: 
    • ​Top growth should be removed and stump treatment can be applied year-round
  • If the base of the weed is accessible, basal stem treatment can be applied, and be applied year-round

Multiflora rose is considered widespread in Pennsylvania, and can be found anywhere in the state.



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