We're into week seven of our Weed of the Week campaign, continuing to share important information on our region's priority weeds. This week we're looking at one of Australia's longest-running problem weeds - blackberry.
Snowy Monaro Regional Council encourages our community to get to know our region's unwanted (priority) weeds. Knowing what to look for and how to help, we can work together protect the environment, help our farmers and support our community.
The impact of weeds on natural vegetation can be devastating and is estimated to cost the NSW economy approximately $1.8 billion annually (NSW Department of Industry, 2018).
What is Blackberry?
Blackberries (Rubus fruticosus agg.) were introduced into Australia from Britain in the 1840s for fruit and for making hedgerows. Shortly after, they escaped into the wild and by the 1880s had become significant weeds.
Blackberries thrive in a wide range of habitats, invading both grazing lands and natural ecosystems. Seeds are spread by birds and foxes and carried along waterways. Blackberry is a Weed of National Significance and a priority weed in the Snowy Monaro.
Integrated weed management is the most effective way of controlling blackberry.
Why is blackberry a problem?
Blackberry is a priority weed that spreads rapidly and infests large areas.
• It forms dense impenetrable thickets
• It dominates cultivated lands, native vegetation, and waterways especially
• It reduces biodiversity and habitat for native animals
• It fuels bushfires
• It provides safe harbour for vermin such as rabbits and foxes
• It is an abundant food source for introduced bird species such as starlings and blackbirds
It is difficult to control the spread of blackberry. Blackberry reproduces by seed, root suckers and at stem tips. Birds, animals and livestock eat the fruit that then spread blackberry.
What can you do?
• Learn to identify and effectively control blackberry
• Search your property for new germinations or regrowth of blackberry
• If you have a small number of plants to control, you can remove the fruit before digging out or spraying
• Herbicide application is widely used and effective. However, it is most effective when implemented as part of an integrated weed control program in conjunction with manual removal, mulching, burning and/or intensive grazing with suitable livestock species
• A range of selective herbicides are available that provide excellent control of Blackberry, while minimising damage to surrounding vegetation. Always read the label and be particularly careful applying herbicides or other control techniques along waterways
• Australia does have a few native species of Rubus and native blackberries do occur in the Snowy Monaro - these are generally smaller, fine leaved plants and not invasive weeds
• Council's Biosecurity officers can help you determine which blackberry you have on your lands and how best to manage it
• Dispose of any plants you remove manually on-site or in the designated Weeds bins at a Council Landfill - do not dispose of plant waste in your local park or reserve
