Stephen, these photos are a little small (low resolution for zooming) and out of focus, but I do think I see a papery covering at the nodes ( a feature called an ocrea). That feature, the growth habitat, and your observations regarding the other two pieces already pulled would suggest that this is Japanese knotweed (Fallopia japonica). Here I will provide some control information I keep on file. 

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Japanese knotweed is an aggressive perennial that reproduces both by rhizomes (underground stems) and by seed. It is often found in shaded to partially shaded habitats on moist, nutrient-rich soils, though it can thrive in gardens and on roadsides as well. 

Physical control. 
Repeated chopping or digging may eventually deplete underground reserves thus reducing the competitive edge of Japanese knotweed, however it is expected to take several growing seasons to achieve eradication. Both root and stem fragments can root and result in new plants, therefore any plant material removed for control should be placed in the trash headed to the landfill and not in yard waste or compost. Mulching is not an effective means of suppressing Japanese knotweed. Mowing is not recommended as it can spread the infestation. 

Biological control. 
At MSU Dr. Marianna Szucs laboratory group is working on a testing a biological control agent for Japanese knotweed, however this is still in the preliminary stages of testing for the state. More information Dr. Szucs program can be found at http://mariannaszucs.weebly.com/ in the Resources section. 

Chemical control. 
Repeated herbicide applications of glyphosate or various brush killers, such as triclopyr (Garlon, Pathfinder, Brush-B-Gon) or triclopyr + 2,4-D (Crossbow) should help keep this plant under control, but eradication is difficult. Chemical applications can be made to cut stems for more effective treatment of small populations, see herbicide labels for details. Glyphosate (e.g. Farmworks 41% Glyphosate) is usually the best choice for residential users because of it is not prone to movement in the environment once the spray contacts the plants and soil, ease of application and lack of residual activity in the soil, however, in a lawn triclopyr or triclopyr + 2,4-D are better options because they will not harm the grass. Glyphosate is getting harder to find at stores as it has been replaced in most Roundup branded products with other herbicides. If you have a question about a particular herbicide, please let me know. 

Be sure to read and follow all labeled instructions. Repeat applications will likely be necessary. Also note that early fall applications (when temperatures are still above 50F) are often the best time to target herbaceous perennial weeds, like Japanese knotweed, due to better movement of the herbicides to the root/rhizome system with the natural fall movement of carbohydrates to those systems at the time. 

There are more potent herbicides available that may provide eradication, but they are very persistent and can impact trees and shrubs with roots in the area. If you would like more information on these herbicides please let me know. 

**Note, if your neighbors also have this weed and they are not actively controlling it; it will continue to be a problem. We have seen that in our own yard. 

Cooperative Invasive Species Management Areas (CISMAS). In Michigan there are several groups working to eradicate invasive plant species. Each group covers a cluster of counties and is funded by varying sources, some volunteer efforts, and sometimes property owners themselves. Groups have varying priority species and their abilities to help vary. If they are not able to help with a particular species of interest they still may be able to point you toward local, reputable companies that can help. You can find your CISMA at this site: https://www.michigan.gov/invasives/take-action/local-resources Usually there is a coordinators email and phone number listed and sometimes there is also a web address (or you can do an internet search for the group’s name). 

Grand Traverse County is part of the Northwest Michigan Invasive Species Network (ISN, your local CISMA). The knotweeds are listed in their “Top 12” so it is possible they may have additional resources to help you combat this weed. Their website is found at: https://www.habitatmatters.org/ Their listed phone # is<personal data hidden> 

Please let me know if you have any additional questions.

Dr. Hill:

Thank you for your response to my inquiry of May 24.  I’ve acted upon your eradication suggestion by contacting the Northwest Michigan Invasive Species Network and arranged for their visit here later this month.

 

This experience has made me aware of the dangers of plants such as this and has made me more attentive to their existence, which brings me to the reason for this note: While walking my dog early this morning I came upon the plant pictured, which I assume to be Japanese Knotweed due to its close resemblance to that which you previously identified.  Since the plant exists in City owned street decoration, on a principal public right-of-way, I plan to notify local authorities of its existence, but wish to have my identification confirmed.

 

Attached are two photos taken this morning.  Please forward your opinion of this plant at your earliest convenience.

 

Thank you,

 

 

 

 

These look like suckers from the tree, I am guessing a type of Linden.  

Thank you.  My wife has offered the same opinion, so it appears that I was overreacting a bit. I’ve become very sensitive to invasive species issues.