Blackberry Control

Blackberry Control 

Common Name: Blackberry 

Scientific Name: Rubus fruticosus 

Description: Blackberry is a very prickly, rambling vine.  The plant has dark green leaves with pink/white flowers (November to April) and produces edible blackberries. 

Problem: The problem with blackberry is that it has an extensive rhizome system which can be difficult to get rid of.  While the top part of the plant may be removed, the problem still exists if the rhizomes are left in the ground, hence blackberry control can be difficult.  Dense thickets of blackberry of up to 2 metres tall can prevent stock and human access as well as providing refuges for other pests like possums and rabbits. 

Management: Blackberry control can be done through mechanical methods, stock grazing management and herbicide treatment. 

Blackberry Control Methods: One of the most effective means of blackberry control is foliar spraying with a systemic herbicide.  The best and most effective time for blackberry control via a herbicide is when it is growing.  The best time for blackberry control is spring and summer as that is when the plant is growing the most.  It is at this time that the systemic herbicide has the opportunity to move from the leaves and cane through the plant into the rhizomes, thus killing the whole plant.