Bramble

Rubus fruticosus

Areas affected Beds and borders
Main causes May establish from seed, but often arrives by the tips of stems rooting
Timing Seen all year round
 
What is it?
Brambles are a frequent problem, especially in neglected areas of the garden, or under hedges. Ivy is another common woody weed that grows not only over the ground and through plants, but also buildings and fences.
Other woody weeds that can cause problems in gardens include suckers and seedlings from trees and shrubs.
 
Appearance
Brambles have long, thorny, arching shoots, which can grow 1.8-2.5m (6-8ft) in length, and root easily where the tips touch the soil. Brambles can become a problem where seedlings are allowed to take root, or where stems of established plants have rooted at intervals. 
 
The problem

Woody weeds such as brambles, ivy and tree seedlings and suckers can be difficult to eradicate once they have become established. Hand pulling and digging young seedlings as soon as they are seen will save a lot of hard work later. A thick mulch of chipped bark or compost will also make it much easier to pull out recently germinated seeds in the spring.

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