Blackberry

Blackberry bushes are located along many of Hobart's waterways. It's in full bloom during summer and autumn. This is when the blackberries are in full fruit and ripe for the harvesting.

Despite their benefits, blackberry is a significant weed in Tasmania.

Blackberries, Rubus fruticosus, survive and spread very successfully in open environments such as:

• disturbed bush
• the banks of waterways
• along roads, tracks and fences
• within agricultural landscapes.

Once established, blackberries are incredibly difficult to remove. They form dense thickets covered in thistles, and their root system are deep and extensive.

Once blackberry has established in an area, it can outcompete native vegetation. It can also provide shelter and food or invasive species, often increasing their populations where present.

Blackberry is a declared weed in Tasmania, as well as a Weed of National Significance.

You can find more information about blackberry on the Department of Natural Resources and Environment website.

Treating Blackberry

Treating blackberry can be particularly challenging due to its:

• prickly nature
• potential habitat and food for rare wildlife
• ability to stabilise waterway banks.

Herbicides are the most effective control for this species. It often works well in combination with other methods. Specific herbicides can be sprayed over the leaves. If the majority is cut back, can be painted on the remaining roots and stems. Goats are also effective at starting to control large infestations!

If it's growing along slopes, or native wildlife is known to be present, a staged approach works best. This involves gradually removing the weeds, and planting natives at the same time.

Please note: herbicides cannot be used on blackberries while they are in fruit. This is due to its impact on humans and wildlife.