How To Permanently Get Rid Of Blackberry Bushes

To permanently get rid of blackberry bushes, you need to exhaust the root system because those roots are the real troublemakers.
 
If you cut blackberry bushes down to the ground and walk away, they will laugh at you and grow back thicker than ever.
 
The key to permanently getting rid of blackberry bushes is understanding how they spread and then attacking the roots with consistency.
 
In this post, we will cover the best ways to permanently get rid of blackberry bushes, from digging to smothering, and how to keep them from coming back.
 
Let’s dig in.
 

Why Getting Rid of Blackberry Bushes Permanently Is Tricky

Permanently getting rid of blackberry bushes is tricky because these plants are survivors.
 
They spread through both seeds and aggressive underground stems called rhizomes.
 
That means if you only remove the top part, the roots stay alive and push out new shoots within weeks.
 
Here’s why permanently getting rid of blackberry bushes requires a real strategy:
 

1. Blackberry Bushes Have Deep, Stubborn Roots

Blackberry bushes send roots deep into the soil and wide across your garden.
 
These roots store energy, so even a small piece left behind can regrow.
 
That’s why permanently getting rid of blackberry bushes means you have to kill or remove the entire root system.
 

2. They Spread Fast Through Rhizomes

Rhizomes are underground stems that creep outward and pop up new plants.
 
If you leave rhizomes in the ground, you are basically leaving a blackberry bush factory behind.
 
So permanently getting rid of blackberry bushes means breaking that cycle.
 

3. Seeds Stay Viable for Years

Blackberry seeds can remain dormant in the soil for years.
 
Birds and animals also drop seeds, so new blackberry bushes can appear even after you clear an area.
 
This is why permanently getting rid of blackberry bushes often requires follow-up and patience.
 

How to Permanently Get Rid of Blackberry Bushes by Digging Them Out

Digging is the most direct way to permanently get rid of blackberry bushes.
 
It works best when the soil is moist, making roots easier to pull.
 
Here’s how to do it right:
 

1. Cut the Canes First

Use loppers or a brush cutter to cut all canes down to the ground.
 
This gives you clear access to the root zone.
 
Wear gloves and long sleeves because those thorns are unforgiving.
 

2. Dig Around the Root Ball

Use a shovel or mattock to loosen the soil around the base.
 
Work your way around the entire clump, prying up as you go.
 
The goal is to lift the crown and as much of the root system as possible.
 

3. Remove All Visible Roots

Shake off the soil and pull out every root you can see.
 
Small roots left behind can sprout again.
 
This step is tedious but essential for permanently getting rid of blackberry bushes.
 

4. Sift Through the Soil

If you want to be thorough, sift the soil with your hands or a screen.
 
Remove any root fragments you find.
 
This extra effort makes a huge difference when your goal is permanently getting rid of blackberry bushes.
 

Other Methods for Permanently Getting Rid of Blackberry Bushes

Digging works, but sometimes you need backup.
 
Here are other proven ways to permanently get rid of blackberry bushes:
 

1. Smother Them with Mulch or Black Plastic

Cut the canes down, then cover the area with thick black plastic or heavy mulch.
 
The lack of light starves the roots over time.
 
Leave it in place for at least one full growing season for the best chance at permanently getting rid of blackberry bushes.
 

2. Use Herbicides Carefully

Herbicides with glyphosate or triclopyr can help kill roots, but they must be applied correctly.
 
Cut the canes and paint the herbicide directly onto the fresh cuts.
 
This method works best in late summer or early fall when the plant is moving energy to its roots.
 
Always follow the label instructions if you choose this route for permanently getting rid of blackberry bushes.
 

3. Repeat and Monitor

No matter which method you choose, you must check the area regularly.
 
Pull any new shoots while they are small.
 
Staying on top of regrowth is the final key to permanently getting rid of blackberry bushes.
 

So, How Do You Permanently Get Rid of Blackberry Bushes?

You permanently get rid of blackberry bushes by removing or killing the entire root system and then staying vigilant.
 
Cutting the tops alone will not work because the roots will send up new canes.
 
Dig out the roots, smother the area, or use targeted herbicides, and then keep checking for regrowth.
 
With patience and consistency, you can permanently get rid of blackberry bushes and reclaim your garden space.