Researchers at the University of Cincinnati have developed successful methods for removing invasive plant species from Ohio nature preserves and restoring native plant populations. Denis Conover and Tim Sisson used targeted herbicide applications when native plants were dormant to kill the evergreen invasive wintercreeper, English ivy and lesser periwinkle. They also removed Amur honeysuckle, which forms dense thickets choking out native species. Following removal of the invasive plants, surveys found over 387 native plant species resurging in Bender Mountain Nature Preserve, including wildflowers, trees, shrubs, ferns and grasses. The researchers hope their methods can be applied nationwide to promote restoration of native biodiversity.