by Isadora Pandora

Created on: September 10, 2008

Safe and Effective- Using goats in the control of Kudzu

SO many already know about this invasive vine. Yes, Kudzu does suck but it also has many uses that can benefit potential growers/consumers. Though, on the other hand in places to where this cheeky fellow is not a native it can be potentially devastating to the local flora/fauna. I'd say some of my beauties here have already made the (mistake?) of planting it and that is how you stumbled across this article. Don't worry, I won't beat you or call you names (yet anyway... ha!), I'm just here to help you out!

I have always been leery of anything "unnatural" be that pesticides, fertilizers or even cell phones! So when I see people spraying and dousing and everything else in between I ask myself, "Isn't there a better way?" Well, apparently there is! Assuming of course you have access to the little guy called Mr. Goat.

Now, don't get all gung-ho releasing hundreds of goats to free range your Kudzu patch. We need to first prepare an area they can not escape from. There are many ways to do this but perhaps the two least expensive options are to either tie the goats out, making sure they have plenty of fresh water and shade or to erect goat proof temporary fencing. If you choose the first make sure the animals do not get tangled in their ties. They should never be left alone for an extended period of time and make sure to move them around as they eat the kudzu down. And remember, always have plenty of fresh water and shade available to them.
Also plan ahead so you can move the animals out of any upcoming storms.

If the Kudzu is too thick to put up fencing, try going at it with a weed whacker to clear a path. This will not kill it but it can give your goats a head start on controlling it. A person could also burn the entire area down and then build a more permanent structure for their goats. Check your local laws and regulations before starting to burn.

Because Kudzu will grow at different rates in various regions the number of goats per acre will vary. Once you know about how fast your Kudzu grows try contacting your Local County Extension or even a local goat farmer and ask them how many they recommend.

Though using goats as an efficient means to control (yet probably not eradicate) Kudzu is still being studied, it never hurts to let your/your neighbor's livestock access to a nutritious meal. Best of all? It's free! Goats can be sensitive so it is best for the animal to introduce them gradually to anything new in their diets. Try adding small amounts to their daily rations over a period of weeks until they are accustomed to the diet shift. Remember, always do what is best for the animal first!

Did you know?:

Good for the goats: Kudzu is composed of 22 percent protein which means it is as nutritious for your goats as it is yummy.

Goats are browsers and will often reach up to more parasite free leaves leaving the lower potentially buggy leaves alone? Means possible less money spent of medications!

You can make paper from the leaves of Kudzu.

For generations a delicious and healthy tea has been brewed from the leaves of this plant!

Kudzu can grow up to a foot a day!

Note: If portions of the root crown remain after removal, the Kudzu plant can and will grow back. If you just want the Kudzu 'controlled' and aren't that worried with killing it off completely then goats may be just the thing for you!

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