Orange Vine Growing on Shrubs

I have a variegated weigela with beautiful growth and blooms, but something seems to be choking it. I think it's a parasite because it has no roots. The orange growth wraps itself around the plant like a vine, but it doesn't have leaves, just white pinhead berries. I have tried several sprays on it, but nothing seems to work. I was advised to destroy the plant, soil and container altogether, but I'm reluctant to do so.

Sounds like the parasitic plant dodder. This plant attaches itself onto other plants to obtain the water and nutrients it needs to survive. This aggressive parasite can even parasitize two plants at once. If you break the strands it will form new plants from each piece. This annual overwinters as seeds in the ground or inside the host plant. Your best long term solution is to remove and destroy the infested plant- pot, soil, container and all. Then monitor the surrounding area for signs of offspring. Seeds can last in the soil for years so keep a vigilant watch for the next several seasons. Always clean clothing and shoes after working with infested plants and soil to prevent the spread to other areas of the landscape.

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