How to Get Rid of Rampant Brambles

Once a patch of wild blackberries gets going, there's almost no stopping it--and blackberries' close cousins, domestic raspberries and rugosa roses, are just as pushy. Before you reach for an herbicide, try this method. It does take time and patience--but if you want to avoid toxic chemicals, the results are worth it.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Protective Clothing
• Thick Gloves
• Pruning Shears
• Hoe Or Sharp Spade
• Trash Bags

1. Begin at the front of the patch and start cutting. (The smaller the pieces, the easier they are to dispose of.)
2. Put the cuttings into the trash as you go. (Left on the ground or in the compost pile, at least some of them will take root.)
3. When you've cut back to the stump of a plant, slice around it with a hoe or sharp spade.
4. Reach under the stump and cut it off, taking care to cut each little root where it meets the stem. When the roots are no longer attached to the base of the plant, they'll rot.

Tips & Warnings

• Berry and rugosa thorns are wicked. Wear thick gloves, heavy long trousers and a long-sleeved shirt or jacket.

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