Virtual Villagers 2: I really love the game, but I am having a few difficulties with it and need some help.?

Okay, I found 5 of the herbs, didn't know there are 6, now I need to find that one. But, the real problems are these. I can't cut down the vines for some reason. I have up to level 2 in the science, farming and building. How do I cut the vines? The parrrots keep eating all the crops, and now I had to restart because my people starved to death. I have all this algae in the water so I can't fish. I think once I have gotten these things taken care of, it will be okay. But, I can't do a whole lot if all the villagers starve! Please help.