How to Kill Blackberries

Blackberries have a reputation for being an indestructible nuisance around yards and gardens. Vines and stems present problems for home owners who take pride in their gardens and try to protect their plants. Kill blackberries using a combination of methods so they don't overrun your garden.

Instructions

1. Pull young blackberry plants from moist soil by their stems if the plants are under 3-feet tall. Be prepared to keep pulling plants, as small plant nodes often remain in the ground and sprout new growths.

2. Remove larger patches of blackberries using machines if no other plants surround the patch. Use this method only once and on ecologically hardy soil.

3. Cut stems during the spring when blackberries begin to flower on the plant. Merely cutting the stems by hand may require you to keep cutting over a 3-year period before the roots are permanently eliminated.

4. Apply weed killer to the plant when it has reached 12 to 18 inches in length. Look for products that contain glyphosate, triclopyr and 2,4-D. Follow the application directions on the bottle. Focus on soil, leaves, roots, tips and the plant's crown.

5. Till the soil that contained the plant after it has been removed. Several tills keep the blackberry plant from growing back.

6. Let a cow, goat, sheep or horse graze on solitary blackberry plants, if the plants haven't been treated with herbicides.

7. Dispose of blackberry plants by sealing them in plastic bags and taking them to a landfill. You also can burn them in an incinerator or another controlled environment.

Tips & Warnings

• Look into vinegar-based products if you want to kill blackberries organically. However, vinegar may kill blackberries more slowly than synthetic chemicals.

• Choices when selecting weed killers include cut stump treatments, stem injections, basal sprays and herbicide pellets. Choose the appropriate herbicide for the current weed state and season.

• Mowing may add to your blackberry problem by spreading the plant's seeds in other areas.

• Read the restrictions regarding using herbicides in your area. Use of some herbicides requires permits. Never use any chemicals near water sources, prized plants, animals or children.