[Half a plot man]

Thats it we have decided to remove a row of blackberry bushes from our half plot, by doing this we will release approx 2.5mtrs x 4mtrs growing area for better use.

Just a question to you guys is there any special way of removing bushes or is it just cut down and dig out the roots? Im aiming to plant potatoes in their place next year?

Cheers!!

[Yorkie]

I'd chop them down to about 12-18", then it is a question of digging, I'm afraid.  Some people swear by a tool called a mattock or azada instead of a fork or spade.

[Half a plot man]

I'd chop them down to about 12-18", then it is a question of digging, I'm afraid.  Some people swear by a tool called a mattock or azada instead of a fork or spade.

Aye thought so Yorkie, my neighbour has a Mattock that Im sure he will lend me, cheers. 

[surbie100]

Be prepared to see them grow back from small sections you have missed! I've taken out 26 sq m of brambles and blackthorn and the b*****s are still coming back for more... 

[Trillium]

They're determined beasts, no doubt about it.  Lots of digging is the only way. In spring be prepared with a bit of glyphosphate to take them down again.

[Mrs Bee]

Oh yes, a mattock will do the job. The whole of our plot was nothing but brambles twined with devil's guts and nettles.

The mattock did the trick and constant weeding for the seedlings left by the brambles.

Good luck.

[simonwatson]

From personal experience, the mattock is definitely the way to go when digging them out. Glyphosate on the soft new shoots works really well. Stick it in a little hand sprayer so you do them individually.

[compostqueen]

I would relocate one of the blackberry bushes into the hedge if you have one as the fruit is just too good to chuck them all away

[Half a plot man]

Thanks guys - I feel a mattock purchase coming on!