Weedy vines aren’t just annoying—they’re tree-top stranglers. They smother the canopy, block essential sunlight, and can weaken trees until they collapse.

Don’t pull them down! Yanking vines can rip bark, snap branches and damage the trees you’re trying to save. Instead, follow the right method for the right situation.

Cut & paint method - for individual vines or small infestations

This is best for small infestations or where vines are growing from a few clear points.

What to do:

1. Find the main stem and trace it back to ground levelTrace vine back to ground level and cut (photo: OMB Free Wellington)
2. Cut the stump just above the ground with a clean, flat cut
3. Paint the stump with herbicide within 30 seconds of cutting so the herbicide is absorbed before the sap stops flowing.Use a squeeze bottle or paintbrush to just wet the surface, to avoid run-off. A chemical paste or gel works well, it’s mess-free and easily available from garden supply or home improvement stores.

Cut, wait, spray method – for large infestations

When there are too many vines to treat individually, a second visit is recommended.

1. Cut all the vines to waist height
2. Leave the cut vines hanging in trees to dry and die off - ensure that vines don’t touch the ground or they might re-root.
3. Wait until the new growth is a metre long
4. Spray the new foliage with an appropriate herbicide.

To avoid harming nearby desirable or native plants, reduce spray drift by:

• Avoiding windy days—gusts can carry herbicide off target.
• Spraying in the early morning or late afternoon—warm midday air rises, increasing drift.
• Adjusting spray output—opt for a controlled stream over a fine mist to keep herbicide particles in your target area.
• Avoiding spraying in wet conditions—rain can wash herbicide into non-target areas or sensitive environments.
• Shielding native plants—using a half-bucket or barrier keeps them safe from accidental exposure.

For effective weed control:

• Time it right – Spraying during peak growth (before flowering or fruiting) ensures plants absorb the most effective dose.
• Use the correct herbicide – Double-check you’ve got the right product for the specific weed you’re targeting.
• Follow the label – Mix and apply herbicide as directed. Never dip used containers into water sources and always use water-safe sprays near streams or ponds.
• Boost effectiveness – Add a sticking agent (surfactant) to help herbicide stay on leaves, consider marker dye to track where you’ve sprayed, or use a foaming agent to minimise drift.