Removing blackberry bushes often involves cutting the stems and treating the cut surface to kill the roots.
A common and effective method involves cutting each stem of the blackberry bush down to the ground level and then applying a suitable herbicide directly to the fresh cut stump. This approach ensures the chemical is absorbed directly into the plant's root system, leading to the demise of the entire plant.
The Cut Stump Method
As highlighted in the reference, the process is straightforward but requires precision:
- Cut Stems: Using loppers, pruning shears, or a saw, cut every single stem of the blackberry bush as close to the ground as possible.
- Apply Herbicide: Immediately after cutting, apply a small dab of a suitable cut stump herbicide, often referred to as a "cut stump in vine" product, directly onto the surface of the freshly cut stem.
- Target the Base: Ensure the herbicide is placed right at the base of where you made the cut. This allows the chemical to soak efficiently into the plant's vascular system and travel down to the roots.
This method is effective because the herbicide is delivered directly to the part of the plant that can transport it to the roots, bypassing the leaves and reducing the overall amount of chemical needed. The goal is for the herbicide to soak into the root system and kill the entire plant from the roots up.
Why This Method Works
Applying herbicide directly to the cut stump is a targeted approach that minimizes off-target damage to surrounding vegetation. Unlike foliar sprays, which cover leaves and can drift, the cut stump method focuses the treatment on the specific plant you want to remove. The fresh cut allows for maximum absorption of the herbicide into the phloem, which transports sugars and other substances, including herbicides, to the roots.
| Step | Action | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Cutting | Cut stems at ground level | Remove top growth, expose roots for treatment |
| 2. Application | Apply herbicide to fresh cut stump | Deliver chemical directly to the roots |
| 3. Absorption | Herbicide soaks into root system | Kills the entire plant |
Note: Always follow the specific instructions on the herbicide product label regarding application rates, safety precautions, and timing.
Using this cut stump technique, as described, targets the root system directly, preventing the bush from resprouting from the base and effectively killing the whole plant.
