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Can you remove Japanese knotweed in Ohio in November?

Sources (1)

Ohio source only. Checked October 27, 2026. Not legal advice; follow the herbicide label.

Mostly no; plan for spring.ODOT’s Ohio guide treats knotweed from late spring, once the leaves are fully open, through late-summer flowering. Don’t cut it now and move the pieces, because cut pieces can root.

When Ohio’s guidance says to do it

Treat from late spring, after the leaves are fully open, through late-summer flowering.

Source: Ohio Department of Transportation, Guide for Roadside Integrated Vegetation Management of Prohibited Noxious Weeds in Ohio (revised Mar 1, 2023; written for road crews)

How to remove Japanese knotweed (Reynoutria japonica)

Very hard to control. Mowing or cutting only weakens it, and cut pieces can root and start new patches, so don't move cuttings. ODOT uses a labeled herbicide on the leaves and waits at least four weeks before cutting. Expect to repeat for several years. Follow the label.

Source: Ohio Department of Transportation, Guide for Roadside Integrated Vegetation Management of Prohibited Noxious Weeds in Ohio (revised Mar 1, 2023; written for road crews)

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