Controlling Buckthorn

Buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica or Rhamnus frangula alnus) used to be one of the plants of choice to create height in your landscape as an ornamental shrub and possibly used to create a deciduous hedge. Now, Buckthorn is considered a noxious weed in Minnesota and is currently taking over many of our natural areas. It is a tough species that is adaptable to sun or shade, drought, and poor soil. At the current time Buckthorn is out-competing our native plants, which in turn is reducing plant diversity. We need this diversity to provide us with healthy forests, prairies, and wetlands.

To control buckthorn follow these steps:

• Pull out small seedling by hand. It is easiest when the soil is moist.
• Dig out larger seedlings. Call Gopher State One (651-454-0002) before digging.
• Cut larger buckthorn trees off at ground level and spray the top and sides of the stump with a brush or stump killer (any product that contains the active ingredient Triclopyr is ideal). It is most effective when you spray in late summer or early fall because the sap is flowing to the root system. Be careful near edible and other desirable plantings and follow the manufacturer instructions.
• Remove all debris and berries so that they do not have an opportunity to restart.
• Your city may have a buckthorn drop location, or you could call a local tree service for disposal.

Some suggestions to replace Buckthorn:

Full Sun to Partial Shade

Full Sun Only