Blackberry control manual - Weeds Australia

Cut-stump application
This technique is labour intensive and
consequently is used mainly on scattered plants
in small areas or in areas of high conservation
value to minimise the potential impact of the
herbicide on non-target species. It can also
be used as a follow-up treatment once larger
infestations have been reduced.
Canes are cut off flat and straight close to ground
level. The cut stems are coated with herbicide
immediately after cutting. The herbicide must
be applied immediately after the canes are cut,
before the wound seals and sap flow to the crown
stops. A delay of more than 10 seconds will give
poor results. The herbicide can be applied as a gel
(Vigilant®), with a paintbrush or pad, drench gun,
knapsack or a hand spray bottle (used solely for
that purpose and clearly marked).
Queensland Natural Resources and Mines
Cut-stump herbicide application.
Case study
Use of the splatter gun
In the NSW Hunter Region, Ken England
enthusiastically proclaims the benefits of using
the splatter gun as a chemical applicator for
controlling blackberries, among other weeds.
He notes that he is often faced with a situation
where the weed is in a relatively inaccessible
area, such as the steep side of a hill; in an area
where water needed for more conventional spray
techniques is in short supply; or in a place, such
as a watercourse, where it is particularly important
to guard against overspray.
Ken notes, for convenience, you can’t beat the
splatter gun. It is more economical than similar
forms of equipment such as the gas gun or high
volume spray applicators, and it can be carried in
the vehicle ready for use at all times. As it is not
necessary to carry any extra weight (such as gas
bottles for powering the equipment), the splatter
gun is also convenient to carry when spraying
needs to be done on foot or from the back of a
horse.
For the control of blackberry, Ken has found that a
concentrated mix of 335 millilitres of Grazon® DS
to 10 litres of water – with a crop oil added at the
recommended rate to aid penetration, improve
rain fastness and to act as a marker is best. This
mixture is ‘striped’ in measured amounts onto
the weed at intervals. There is no danger of
overspray. The crop oil serves to help the chemical
adhere to the plant until it is absorbed. Also, as
the oil leaves a shine, it helps identify where the
application has been made. The best time for
application is when the plants are fruiting (if they
are not likely to be eaten by humans) and humidity
is high (i.e. the stomata in the leaves are open and
ready to absorb the chemical).
Ken England from the NSW Department of Environment
and Climate Change demonstrating the use of the
splatter gun.
Ken England (NSW DECC)
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