Japanese Stiltgrass (Microstegium vimineum) is considered an invasive pest in about 25 eastern US states. Originally transported to the US as packaging material for the shipment of porcelain from China in 1919, Stiltgrass can have damging effects on local biodiversity. Invasion of Microstegium can reduce growth and flowering of native species, suppress native plant communities, alter and suppress insect communities, slow plant succession and alter nitrogen availability in the soil. Whilst scientists have regularly used prescribed burning as a successful means for controlling invasive plant species, new evidence suggests fires may actually promote Stiltgrass invasions. continue reading here
