Creeping Lilyturf (Liriope spicata) Control with Postemergent-Applied Herbicides

Liriope spicata is a low-growing, grass-like perennial that is native to Southeast Asia. This and several similar Liriope species have been widely introduced into the United States for ornamental and groundcover purposes. Liriope spicata can spread aggressively via seed dispersal and creeping rhizomes and form dense, monotypic patches. Little information is currently available in the literature concerning creeping lilyturf control. We tested seven herbicides in 2011 and 2012 using container grown creeping lilyturf that had been established for approximately one year prior to treatment. Visual evaluations at 30 and 60 days after treatment indicated that no treatment provided rapid control of the foliage. However, above- and belowground biomass harvested at 90 and 180 days after treatment (DAT) indicated that metsulfuron and imazapyr were highly effective in controlling L. spicata. Both herbicides reduced belowground biomass by greater than 97%. Glyphosate and imazapic, which have been recommended for creeping lilyturf control, only reduced belowground biomass by 43 and 45%, respectively, at 180 DAT. The herbicides 2,4-D and dicamba, which have known efficacy on other members of the family Liliaceae, did not effectively control L. spicata. These results indicate that metsulfuron and imazapyr are more effective treatment options for creeping lilyturf control than currently recommended glyphosate and imazapic treatments. However, in hardwood forest systems where creeping lilyturf is primarily invasive, their utility may be limited due to potential nontarget damage.