Brambles can be a 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 over buildings and fences.

Other woody weeds that can cause problems in gardens include suckers and

A seedling is a young plant grown from seed.

Brambles and other woody weeds can be of value to wildlife, providing shelter and food. For example, the flowers of brambles are a food source for bees; the leaves are a food source for caterpillars and the fruits are eaten by mammals and birds. 

Bees in your garden

Bees in your garden

Birds in your garden

Birds in your garden

Butterflies in your garden

Butterflies in your garden

However, brambles and other vigoruous woody plants are often unwelcome in gardens. This page looks at options for gardeners when brambles and other unwanted woody plants are becoming a problem.

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. 

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.

The RHS believes that avoiding pests, diseases and weeds by good practice in cultivation methods, cultivar selection, garden hygiene and encouraging or introducing natural enemies, should be the first line of control. If chemical controls are used, they should be used only in a minimal and highly targeted manner. 

Cultural control

In light, workable soils, cut back the scrambling stems to around 30cm (1ft) from ground level. Strimmers will deal effectively with large areas of woody weeds.

Dig out the bramble stump, taking the roots away at the same time. It is important to remove as much of the below-ground parts as possible, as brambles have the ability to regenerate from well below soil level. Seedlings should be weeded out by hand.

Stems and roots shaken free of soil can be finely shredded and used as a mulch. Alternatively they can be taken to a local council green waste facility or burnt in bonfires. However, bonfires create pollution and may also annoy neighbours. They should be conducted when wind and weather mean that smoke will not enter houses or inhibit others from enjoying their garden. Here are some government guidelines on garden bonfires. 

Weedkiller control

The RHS does not support the use of weedkillers and recommends that alternative control methods are used. However, we do note that when gardeners struggle to control plants with cultural methods, regulated weedkillers/pesticides for home gardeners are available for use legally. Garden centres and large retailers selling weedkillers have trained staff who can advise on suitable products for your needs.