What Is The Invasion Of Honey Locusts?

The honey locust, also known as the thorny locust or thorny honeylocust, is a deciduous tree native to central North America, found in the moist soil of river valleys. It is highly adaptable and has been used in traditional medicine, food, and tea by indigenous people of North America. The pods of the honey locust are highly sought after by wildlife and domestic livestock due to their sweet-tasting pulp.

However, the invasive nature of the honey locust reshapes habitats, affecting local fauna and altering food availability, impacting species dependent on native plants. It may indirectly influence animal populations. Red oaks, sometimes called northern red oaks, are messy on and can be damaging invasive species. Honey locust trees are often allowed to grow freely and are even cultivated for various purposes.

The mycorrhizae network increases the tree’s mineral and water uptake, while the tree provides a symbiotic relationship with fungi that invade tree root systems. A mature honey locust can reach heights of 60 to 80 feet, but in some cases, it can become aggressive and damaging. The honey locust is a category 3 restricted invasive plant under the Biosecurity Act 2014 and must not be given away, sold, or released into the environment.

In its native environment, the honey locust occurs in woodland, on rocky slopes, and floodplains. However, it can invade forest, grassland, riparian areas, and freshwater. It requires warm climates with moist conditions to become invasive. In terms of reproduction, honey locust spreads rapidly from seeds and outcompetes native vegetation by forming dense thickets of trees.

The honey locust is a common invader of pastures and idle fields, and it is troublesome for farmers whose tractor tires puncture the thorns punctured by the thorns. The colonization of new areas and the abundance of honey locust are enhanced by the proximity to previously encroached woodlots. It is sometimes classed as an invasive species, but its tolerance of pollution makes it an ideal tree for urban planting.

What Kills Locusts Instantly?

Organophosphates, carbamates, and pyrethroids are highly toxic insecticides often utilized during locust emergencies, though their detrimental effects on humans, livestock, and the environment cannot be ignored. Locusts are typically manageable unless faced with a large swarm. Simple methods, such as mixing bait with bran and insecticides, can be effective when applied carefully. Combining these methods with physical barriers or traps enhances control over these pests.

For localized heavy infestations, targeted chemical sprays are commonly used on plants or directly on locusts. The choice of chemical insecticide hinges on the product label. For dealing with fungus gnats, which feed on fungi and organic matter in soil, safe remedies like neem oil or pepper spray are recommended. Chemical pesticides can also be employed, but they risk harming the environment and other creatures. A unique method of killing locusts involves using foamed Dawn soap, which suffocates them by collapsing their lungs.

Fipronil is a highly effective ingredient against grasshoppers and locusts, applicable in settings like pastures and gardens. Insecticides can be administered from ground or aerial vehicles, effectively targeting swarms quickly. Freezing is regarded as a humane method to euthanize insects by slowing their metabolism. Natural alternatives include garlic spray, flour dusting, introducing natural predators, and more environmentally friendly options for locust control.

How Does Honey Locust Spread?

Honey Locusts (Gleditsia triacanthos), also known as thorny locust or thorny honeylocust, are deciduous trees native to central North America, primarily found in moist river valley soils. They possess a deep and widely spreading fibrous root system, with deep taproots reaching up to 20 feet, allowing for adaptability to various soil types, including alkaline and salty soils, although they thrive in rich, moist areas. The tree can grow to heights of 30-80 feet and feature extensive canopy widths of 30-60 feet.

Honey locust trees begin producing seeds at 3 to 5 years of age, generating over 10, 000 seeds annually. They spread via seeds, which are dispersed through animal dung and water, as well as by suckering. The tree's crown is open and broad, with a flat-topped shape, spreading between 25-80 feet. The species is notable for its drought tolerance, thanks to deep taproots that access subsoil moisture during dry spells.

Ecologically, honey locust seed pods contain sweet pulp, serving as food for various animals, including deer, cattle, and rabbits, with white-tailed deer playing a role in seed dispersal. The 'Imperial' variety of honey locust is distinguished by its thornless branches, making it a popular ornamental choice. Historically, honey locusts were propagated by megafauna, like the woolly mammoth, making them relatively rare today. Individual seeds germinate over several years, ensuring a spread in emergence.

What Triggers Locusts To Swarm?

The sight, smell, and touch of fellow locusts trigger a surge of serotonin in their brains, activating genes associated with their gregarious phase while inhibiting 'solitary' genes. This biochemical mechanism reflects the social response patterns seen in humans and other animals. Learning, defined as behavioral change from new experiences, occurs in locusts as they shift from solitary to social behavior. These insects exhibit two distinct behavioral states: solitary and docile, or active and sociable, forming massive swarms.

Recent findings published in Science highlight the biological basis for locust swarming, which could aid in preventing crop-devastating plagues. Locusts are notorious for causing famines since they can suddenly swarm and ravage vast areas of crops. The migratory locust, the most widespread species, can adapt its behavior based on environmental conditions like food availability and rainfall. Research indicates that a specific protein linked to learning and memory is crucial for transitioning locusts from benign grasshoppers to destructive swarming pests.

Additionally, scientists identified a chemical that prompts locusts to swarm, initiated by high population density that triggers serotonin influx in their nervous system. The phenomenon of swarming can arise from rainfall, enabling lush vegetation that congregates locusts through feeding. Their transformation to a swarming form occurs after several contacts over a brief period, signifying an evolutionary response to changes in conditions. Studies reveal that population density significantly influences locust behavior, ultimately leading to swarming through pheromones like 4-vinylanisole, which attracts more locusts into the fray, driven by the need to seek greener pastures.

How Do You Control Honey Locusts?

For controlling honey locust, you can achieve 76 to 100 percent root kill using herbicides like Sendero, GrazonNext HL, MezaVue, or Grazon P+D. The honey locust is a dense, thorny tree native to Texas, and effective management strategies include a three-step approach outlined in a Brush Busters publication (2 pages). Employing a broadleaf systemic herbicide is crucial for killing stumps and root suckers from the parent system. One recommended method is the hack and squirt technique, with Remedy Ultra Herbicide being specifically labeled for honey locust.

An alternative approach involves cutting the tree; honey locusts are fast-growing and can be effectively managed by repeatedly felling young trees. Chemicals can also reduce fruit set on ornamental varieties; products containing the active ingredient ethephon can be sourced from garden centers. Regularly cutting back trees, including both new stems and growth, is encouraged, with a recommendation to apply herbicides like picloram (Pathway or Tordon) to freshly cut stumps to ensure mortality and prevent regrowth.

For areas where honey locust coexists with mesquite, Sendero will control both species effectively. The spraying of herbicide directly onto each plant is a key element in controlling unwanted honey locust. The combination of cutting, girdling, and herbicide application is considered the most efficient method. Additionally, continuously mowing or applying herbicide to tree suckers can enhance control. Drill methods can also deliver herbicides into the trunk for effective treatment. Overall, timely and correct application will yield successful management of honey locust.

What Is Killing My Honey Locust?

Root collar rot is a disease caused by soil microorganisms that damages the bark and outer wood of honeylocusts at the ground line, creating cankers and effectively girdling the tree. All honeylocust cultivars, including thornless and podless varieties, are vulnerable to this issue. Various methods exist for eliminating honeylocust trees, with chemical options like picloram and triclopyr herbicides being effective when applied to drilled holes in stumps or painted onto bark.

A notable chemical-free method is girdling, which involves removing a strip of bark to cut off nutrient flow, leading the roots to eventually starve. For the hack and squirt technique, Remedy Ultra Herbicide is recommended, targeting honeylocust while also addressing stumps and root suckers. Specific herbicides like Sendero, GrazonNext HL, MezaVue, and Grazon P+D can achieve a 76 to 100 percent root kill. Monitoring for pests such as spider mites, honeylocust plant bugs, and various tree borers is crucial, as they can further harm weakened trees.

Regarding diseases, root collar rot and cankers, such as those caused by Thyronectria and Ganoderma, are prevalent in honeylocusts. Treatment requirements include cutting root suckers and applying systemic herbicides like Picloram. Given these threats, understanding and managing honeylocust health has become increasingly essential in regions like Denver.

Is Honey Locust Good For Anything?

Timber from the honey locust tree (Gleditsia triacanthos) is utilized for a variety of applications including fence posts, railroad ties, furniture, pallets, tool handles, and fuel. Native Americans historically used dried pulp from the seed pods as a sweetening agent and food source. Honey locust wood is highly regarded for its strength, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor projects. Although the strong red color will fade over time, the wood is known for its beautiful grain.

Notably distinct from black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia), honey locust features edible beans that are sweet when soft and green, serving as food for wildlife while creating shade habitats. Woodworking with honey locust is prized for its aesthetic appeal and durability, though it has moderate resistance to rot and is susceptible to insect damage. Its density can make it challenging to work with, but it yields excellent results.

Furthermore, the honey locust tree promotes biodiversity, supporting wildlife such as deer and livestock, which consume the pods, and attracting pollinators. The tree is fast-growing, offers summer shade, and assists with soil nitrogen fixation and erosion control. Honey locust wood has a Janka hardness rating of 1, 580 lbf (7, 030 N), making it a viable choice for cabinetry and also suitable for wood stoves. Overall, honey locust serves a multifaceted role in both woodworking and ecological environments.

Why Are Honey Locust Trees Dying?

In my experience, locust borer and cankers are the primary threats to honey locust trees (Gleditsia triacanthos). These trees often struggle in landscape settings due to issues like messiness, self-seeding, suckering, and brittle wood. Furthermore, honey locusts are vulnerable to several diseases, making early identification and intervention crucial for their maintenance. Root rot is particularly deceptive, with symptoms like yellowing leaves, a sparse canopy, and early autumn coloration.

Sunken areas in the bark and diminished foliage are also signs of distress. Urban environments often exacerbate these issues. It's worth noting that there are various honey locust cultivars, each with unique genetic traits affecting their hardiness and cold resilience, leading to varying leaf drop.

Cankers and collar rot are significant diseases that can girdle and potentially kill the tree, manifesting through dieback, dead bark areas, and yellowing foliage. The mimosa webworm can also threaten honey locusts, linking leaflets and feeding on foliage, causing gradual decline. Regular pruning of dead branches is recommended, as once they are dead, they cannot be revived. A wider ring of mulch can aid moisture retention but isn’t a cure-all. Honey locusts are generally slow-growing and may struggle during adverse conditions or repeated pest infestations.

Recently, there has been notable dieback observed in local honey locusts, prompting concerns among homeowners. To combat these issues, it is advisable to remove dead wood by September and ensure adequate watering during the growing season, especially as autumn approaches.

How Do You Prevent Locust Infestation?

Ground spraying with chemical insecticides is the most effective method for managing locust infestations. Landholders have access to both chemical and biological insecticides to protect their properties from locust damage. Aerial and ground spraying of pesticides, including biopesticides, is necessary to control locust propagation and prevent their spread. However, local measures may only delay locusts from entering a region rather than stopping swarms entirely.

The primary activity in locust control involves locating and destroying locust eggs through techniques such as ploughing and digging. Biopesticides offer an environmentally friendly option for eliminating locusts.

Preventing locust infestations is critical; early intervention can avert minor locust presences from escalating. Creating an unwelcoming environment by promoting natural predators is effective. If grasshoppers are suspected to be locusts, swift action is crucial, with various methods available to repel or eliminate them.

The FAO aims to reduce pesticide use against desert locusts and advocates for preventive control strategies. Desert locusts often lead solitary lives until environmental triggers cause massive swarming, leading to severe impacts. Innovative control strategies are being implemented in East Africa, with advancements in pest management and precision agriculture technology. Training for desert locust information officers has also improved with tools like the RAMSES v4.

1 application, enhancing locust surveillance. Overall, addressing locust outbreaks incorporates a blend of immediate control, prevention strategies, and innovation to mitigate their impact on agriculture and food security.

Can Humans Eat Honey Locust?

The Honey Locust tree (Gleditsia triacanthos) offers edible seed pods that have been utilized by humans and wildlife alike. The pods contain a sweet, jelly-like pulp that is both aromatic and nutritious, making them suitable for consumption either raw or cooked. While ripe pods, which can be harvested throughout the winter in the Northern Hemisphere, are ready to eat, green pods require cooking before they can be safely consumed.

Additionally, the mature seeds within the pods are edible and can be ground into flour, providing a valuable protein, calcium, and phosphorus source with approximately 30% sugar and 10-24% protein content.

Various cultivars of thornless Honey Locust may produce pod flesh that is sweet enough for human consumption, though specific varieties might offer superior taste. Historically, Native Americans leveraged the tree’s sweet pulp, debunking urban legends that falsely claim Honey Locust is toxic to humans. Proper identification of the pods is crucial to avoid any potential choking hazards, as with any foraged food.

In agricultural settings, Honey Locust trees are favored as a forage crop since livestock and wildlife readily consume the pods and seeds. Beyond their use as animal feed, the pods can be transformed into jams or teas, and the flowers are used to enhance salads and beverages. Despite the tree's reputation for having spines that can puncture tires and shoes, its practical food applications make it a valuable asset.

Overall, the Honey Locust tree is a versatile and edible resource, offering sweet-pulped pods and nutritious seeds without posing health risks when properly prepared and consumed. Its historical significance and practical uses highlight its importance both for human consumption and as a beneficial element in agricultural practices.