Bittersweet Reflections: Honeysuckle Jelly

     We have been actively combating invasive species and promoting the growth of native plants on our land. Among these invasive species is the Japanese Honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica), known for its sweet fragrance. While its presence is a familiar sight in late Spring and early Summer, particularly in the southern states, it poses a threat as it spreads across the eastern US from Maine to Florida and as far west as Wisconsin and Texas, thriving in 26 states.

    Originally native to East Asia, the Japanese honeysuckle was brought to Long Island, New York, in 1806 for its beauty and erosion control benefits. This plant quickly adapts to various environments and grows at a rapid pace, creating dense thickets that stifle and eliminate other plant life. By outcompeting native species for resources like light and nutrients, it alters forest ecosystems. While we have removed a significant amount of Japanese honeysuckle from our yard, we decided to repurpose some before discarding the rest. But more on that later.

There are multiple methods to eliminate Japanese honeysuckle:

• Hand removal involves digging up the plant and its root system.
• Herbicides can be used in late fall.
• Control burns and regular mowing can be effective in preventing its spread.

For those who enjoy trailing flowers, there are some native options available.

• Devil’s Darning Needle (Clematis virginiana): A perennial vine that can reach 15 to 20 feet in length and displays white blossoms between July and September. It naturally thrives in damp forests, thickets, and along riverbanks. This plant thrives in various light conditions and soil moisture levels, attracting pollinators and holding medicinal value for the Iroquois. Pruning can be done at any point during the growing season. For denser growth, trim stems in the spring to within a few feet of the ground. It is adept at climbing on wire fences and trellises. CAUTION: All parts of this plant are toxic to humans. Refrain from ingestion.
• Coral Honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens): A personal favorite! This plant is a must-have for us. I've planted it in every home I've lived in, and the abundance of hummingbirds it attracts is always a delight. This perennial vine can reach up to 20 feet in length, showcasing striking red blooms from March to June. Thriving in full sun to partial shade and moist soils, it climbs elegantly on arbors and draws in numerous pollinators. Noteworthy as the host plant for the Spring Azure moth and the Snowberry Clearwing moth.
• Virginia Creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia): A perennial vine that can grow up to 48 feet long. Grows well in most habitats and tolerates a variety of sunlight and soils. It is an attractive ivy with fall colors. It makes good privacy screens, climbs well, and can also be used as a ground cover. A large amount of bird species use it as both a food source and habitat. It is also the host plant for the Abott’s Sphinx moth, Pandora Sphinx moth, Virginia Creeper Sphinx moth, and White-lined Sphinx moth. Warning: It does have poisonous parts.
• Crossvine (Bignonia capreolata): A large perennial vine that grows 36 to 50 feet long. Boasting striking red and yellow flowers that bloom from March to May. Its native habitat is forested floodplains and uplands, hammocks, fencerows, and limestone escarpments. Some shade is tolerated, but the best flowering is achieved in full sun. It does tolerate brief flooding well. They attract hummingbirds, pollinators, and deer. Caution: Crossvine can become aggressive and is fast growing. Plant it in a space so that it has plenty of room to grow. I do not recommend planting it near structures.

    Now that we have removal and replacement with natives out of the way, let's move on to how we made these invasive plants work for us. I collected blooms in the spring and made jelly. Floral jellies are a delightful treat and this one was fun to make.

    I started by gathering flowers and removing the green parts at the base. Then, I boiled water and let the flowers steep overnight for approximately 12 hours. The following morning, I filtered the liquid and brought it to a boil.

When it reaches a boil, add the following:

• 2 cups of sugar for every 3 cups of flowers
• 1 tablespoon of pectin for every cup of flowers
• 2 cups of water for every 3 cups of flowers.

Simmer until “sheets” off the spoon. Can the jelly, let it set, and then enjoy!

    Ideally, we won't be making honeysuckle jelly next year and plan to complete the removal of our plants during this fall and winter. I have mixed feelings about using invasive species for our advantage, as I don't want to promote their retention or, worse, encourage others to plant them in their gardens just for a specific benefit like making delicious jelly. If you have Japanese honeysuckle in your garden, I recommend replacing it with a native alternative that can also enhance your garden. However, if they are in bloom before removal, make the most of it and enjoy some jelly.