Organic Eradication of Smilax (Green Briar) Without Herbicides

Smilax is a tough native vine with deep, extensive roots. Herbicides and digging fail. The effective organic method: cut all vines at ground level and remove them (don't chip—they'll jam the shredder). Then, once a week for a full growing season, walk the area and cut every new sprout. This starves the roots. The same technique works for blackberry and poison ivy.