Japanese Barberry Cut-Sump

[Shelby Bauer]

Does anyone have experience with conducting cut-stump treatments of Japanese Barberry that they could share? I've only ever done foliar treatments which I've seen great success with, but I've got a new site this year that is very large and very dense and I would like to explore my options. Thank you.

[Katie Grzesiak]

We prefer to do manual removal or cut-stump over foliar spray.  It works great!  We use tricolpyr (Garlon).  Very close to 100% (if not 100%) mortality.  The only thing you have to look out for is the seedlings, particularly ones that come up in subsequent years.

[Shelby Bauer]

Thanks Katie! What are you using to cut the barberry? Are you doing it by hand or using something like a chainsaw?

[Katie Grzesiak]

Depends on the size.  We've often used loppers, as the stems aren't that big and we may be working with volunteers. However, for the work I think you're describing (lots and lots), I'd suggest something like a brush saw (though a chainsaw would work).  Cuts down (hah) on the bending/kneeling and speeds everything up a lot!