Invasive Vine That Grows 6 Inches a Day Found in Michigan

Michigan has another invasive weed to worry about, because apparently garlic mustard and Japanese knotweed weren't keeping us busy enough. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) recently confirmed mile-a-minute weed on private property in Concord Township in Jackson County. The discovery came after the property owner reported suspicious plants through the Midwest Invasive Species Information Network (MISIN).

The aggressive vine was first discovered in Michigan in 2020 at Albion College's Whitehouse Nature Center in Calhoun County. The newest location is about four miles away and less than two miles from another known infestation.

Why Mile-a-Minute Weed Is Dangerous

The berries of Michigan's invasive mile-a-minute weed are pictured.

Mile-a-minute weed can grow up to six inches per day, reaching 25 feet in less than two months. Tiny backward-facing barbs help it climb trees and shrubs before forming thick blankets that block sunlight and smother native plants.

The vine threatens Michigan forests, orchards, vineyards, Christmas tree farms, and even your backyard landscaping. One plant can produce thousands of seeds, which may travel through birds, other wildlife, water, boots, and landscaping equipment.

How Michigan Homeowners Can Stop It

A closeup of the leaves of Michigan's invasive mile-a-minute weed.

Property owners should watch for triangular leaves, prickly stems, and clusters of berries that turn blue or purple. Plants may be carefully hand-pulled before fruit develops. Repeated mowing or tilling can also help control new growth.

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Any plants you remove should be double-bagged and taken to a landfill, not tossed into compost where they can plot a return. Suspected plants should be photographed and reported through MISIN. Because seeds can survive in soil for years, affected areas will take multiple follow-up treatments and inspections.