The Coalition was established to investigate treatments for kudzu without chemicals. However, in 2007 we began participating in studies that involve herbicides to better understand how chemical and non-chemical methods can best be used — possibly together. Coalition volunteers do not apply chemicals in these studies. One study takes place at two sites in Spartanburg, and another study takes place in Sumter National Forest.

The following additional links might interest individuals who want to know more about using herbicides to control kudzu.

Advice from Matt Nespeca at The Nature Conservancy

Kudzu Control Methods and Strategies (PDF, 547 KB)

Joyce Bender at Kentucky State Nature Preserves

Mississippi State University Extension Service


Herbicides: The Bottom Line

  1. Herbicide treatments cover large areas, immediately kill foliage, and can be used in combination with other treatments.
  2. Treatments must be repeated for 4 to 10 years.
  3. Protective clothing must be worn.
  4. The most effective chemicals for kudzu are restricted, and require a license.
  5. Herbicides sometimes kill aquatic life, desirable plants (including trees), beneficial insects, and animals.
  6. This treatment is not always practical for small infestations of kudzu, due to the cost of bringing equipment to a site.
  7. Click here to see non-herbicidal kudzu control methods for small property owners.