How to Get Rid of Berry Canes

Manual Removal

• 1

  Trim blackberry canes down to 6 to 8 inches, using garden pruners or loppers. If the canes are long, cut them to manageable lengths.

• 2

  Insert a sharp shovel into the ground about 5 inches from a clump of canes. Push the shovel deeply into the ground. Lift the cane, along with the root, from the ground. Remove as much root as possible.

• 3

  Cultivate the ground, using a rototiller. Permanent removal usually requires repeated tillage over several seasons. For small areas, you can use a hoe.

• 4

  Check the area often. Pull new shoots as soon as they appear.

Chemical Removal

• 5

  Cut the canes close to the ground, using pruners or loppers.

• 6

  Treat freshly cut blackberry canes with a systemic herbicide. Late spring or early autumn treatment is best, as herbicides are most effectively moved through the plants.

• 7

  Apply herbicides strictly according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Your local cooperative extension office can advise which herbicide is best for your particular situation.

• 8

  Evaluate the area often. Repeat treatments as necessary until blackberry canes no longer appear.