SOME OF THE NECESSARY TOOLS FOR THE JOB

I am hopeful, to say the least, that by now you are considering the removal of some invasive plants on your property.  Here are a few of the tools recommended for that job.  I really like Fiskars extendable power lever loping shears.  They are presently available at Ocean State Job lot at a very reasonable price too.  They are light in weight and believe me, they take a lot of abuse!  Actually, another tool manufactured by Fiskars, and also available at Job Lot is a nifty narrow trowel with a serrated edge like a knife.  It is good for digging and the durable and sharp serrated edge is also perfect for cutting roots and even semi-woody stems. A large spade form shovel is also a tool you will find useful, as it will give you more leverage for removal of larger plants and shrubs

One of the methods that I like for control of invasive shrubs is the cut stump treatment.  As much as I would like to use this method now when all the shrubs are beginning to green up, it is a method best performed in late summer and fall when the plant is transitioning its nutritive supply from the leaves back to the roots.  After cutting the stump close to the ground you apply herbicide directly to the cut edge.  You will need a good pair of chemical proof gloves, and I would recommend a mask and goggles as well. For the actual application of the herbicide, you will need at least a spray bottle for small areas or a backpack sprayer to carry ample amount of herbicide to spray on the cut stumps in larger areas of infestation.