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13 Things That Can Harm Trees That You Didn't Know

We all know the importance of trees and the benefits that they can bring to the earth. What is less obvious is the small things we are doing to harm trees. Many of which you might think are actually beneficial. To make sure that you aren’t accidentally killing your trees, read over this list before you give them care.

1. Staking or Guying a Tree Too Much

Staking/Guying : Using stakes and rope to support a tree

Most trees don't need support, and if they do, they only need it for a short amount of time. Staking or guying can cause abnormal trunk growth, bark damage, girdling, or cause a tree to become top heavy.

2. Girdling a Tree

You may think that you are doing your tree a favor by wrapping the bottom of it with plastic. The idea behind this is that it will protect the tree from lawn mowers or weed whackers, but it actually strangles the tree. The plastic covering at the base of a tree trunk leads to a slow death. If your goal is to protect your tree, you would be better off surrounding the tree with mulch which will prevent weeds from growing and help retain moisture.

3.Putting Mulch Too Close To A Tree’s Trunk

Putting mulch too close to the trunk of a tree covers the root flare and causes the tree to suffocate. To prevent this, experts say that you should keep the mulch six inches away from the trunk of a young tree and a foot away from mature tree trunks. Need mulch?

4. Hanging Bird Feeders with Screws or Nails

Anything that penetrates a tree’s bark puts it at risk for disease or insect infestation. It can also damage the cambium, the area beneath the bark where cells rapidly divide and increase the girth of the tree. Another problem with putting screws or nails in your tree is that the tree will grow around the object. This makes it dangerous to trim or cut down the tree at a later date.

5. Tying Your Dog To A Tree

Tying your dog to a tree may seem harmless, but it can damage the tree’s bark. A dog may jump and tug against the tree causing the bark to fall off. The bark is a tree’s first line of defense against disease and insects, so ruining this puts the tree in danger.

6. Pruning Your Tree in the Wrong Season

Pruning your tree in the wrong weather conditions can cause it to be weak and vulnerable. The best time to prune in Minnesota is early spring . 

Many people think that fall is the best time to prune which is actually incorrect. Trees focus their energy on their roots during the fall as they build up nutrients for the approaching winter season. Any cuts from pruning during the fall months won’t have time to heal before the harsh winter arrives, leaving the tree exposed. 

7. Filling Tree Cavities with Concrete

It is a common myth that you should fill a tree cavity to help its structural strength. Tree cavities are best healed by the tree itself.

8. Power Lines

Power companies do not allow trees to touch the power lines and they have little sympathy if you want your tree spared. If you have a tree near the power line, the company will force you to trim it or cut it down. If you are considering planting a tree underneath a power line, consider a tree that is small enough so that it's projected height is less than the height of the power lines.

9. Improper Pruning

If you are unsure of how to prune your tree or do not have the correct equipment, contact your local arborist . This is a very important chore and can kill the tree if done wrong.

10. Planting Too Many Plants or Trees

Planting too many plants or trees too close to each other will cause them to compete for food, water, and sunlight. This will cause some to flourish and some to die. Avoid this by strategically planting plants while accounting for a tree’s potential size.

11. Building or Covering the Roots

Storing harsh chemicals or building over a tree's roots will damage them and cause the tree to die. Think of a tree’s roots as their organ system. They are what keeps them alive and healthy and when the roots fail to work properly the tree will eventually decline and die. Avoid building a structure over tree roots, excavating on and around the tree trunk, parking or storing equipment over the root zone.

12. Salting Near The Tree

In places like Minnesota, it is important to salt in the winter to keep the roads clear, but getting this near your trees can be toxic. Soil with salt in it does not support life and therefore will kill off your trees, grass, and other plants.

13. Using Herbicides or Pesticides

These may keep away the weeds and pests, but they will harm your trees. It is best to put good mulch around the tree which will naturally prevent weeds.

The difficult part of tree care is knowing what is helping and what is hurting your tree. Do your research or contact your local arborist for the best practices on tree care.

Backyardables

What kills trees quickly (5 best ways).

I own a couple of rental properties where I always have weed trees growing up in the fences, flower beds, and next to the house.

With limited time it’s great to know what kills trees quickly. Here is what I have found to be the most effective and fastest way to kill trees.

The size of the tree will determine the fastest way to kill it. If the tree your killing is under 4 feet you can use a general brush killer. Just spray the leaves and the trees will die. This works well if you have weed trees popping up everywhere. For larger trees, cut them down and immediately treat the stump with a Tordon. It’s the most effective tree killer. Depending on the tree you may only need to remove the tree.

More explanation to follow.

Recommended Tools

• Heavy-duty black plastic
• Fertilome Brush and Stump Killer

5 Fastest Ways To Kill Trees

I have briefly explained the fastest way to kill a tree but depending on the type of tree you are trying to kill may warrant a different approach. Here are the fastest and most effective ways to kill trees large and small.

To create better content and resources to help you kill and remove trees please tell me a little about your situation in this ONE Question Survey and recieve 50% off any future tools and resources…from Steven Cooper.

Spray Trees

At one of my rentals, I have large Chinese Elm trees. The shade is great but they put off loads of seeds and every year. As a result, I get baby elm trees popping up everywhere. The best approach I have used is to spray them with an herbicide like Fertilome Brush and Stump Killer. Roundup or Killzall would work as well. I mix it in a gallon sprayer and go to town. Quickly spray all the leaves and that’s it. All your weed trees should die pretty fast. I found that trees larger than about 4 feet won’t die by just spraying the leaves. That takes cutting it down to a stump and treating the stump like I will describe below.

Cut and Remove Tree

If your tree is not a weed tree you may only need to cut it down. Some of the most common trees like pine, palm, oak, and maple don’t need any chemicals to kill them and will die by just cutting and removing them. I made a list of the most common trees with pictures to identify the ones that need to be treated and the ones that don’t. You can check that out here .

Best Chemical Tree Killer

I wanted to figure out what the professionals used to kill trees. The most popular and recommended tree killer used by arborists is called Tordon. Simply apply Tordon to a freshly cut stump (within 30 min)and Tordon will kill even the hardiest of trees. My neighbor hired an arborist to cut down and kill two massive Elm trees in his front yard. Elms are some of the hardiest trees and Tordon did the job. Within a few days, both trees were completely dead. For more steps, pictures, and info on how to kill a tree with Tordon and other chemicals in my article on How To Kill A Tree .

Seal Stump with Plastic

I went to buy a pig this morning the owner told me an awesome natural way to kill a tree. He said he has effectively killed his elm trees by cutting the tree to a stump and sealing the top of the stump with plastic. I would suggest using a heavy-duty black plastic. Place the plastic over the top of the stump and secure it with a tie-down, rope, or Bungie. I haven’t tried this method myself yet but he said he has effectively killed Chinese Elm trees which are some of the most resilient trees.

Call An Arborist

This is a no-brainer but really what is your time worth? How many Saturdays do you want to give up to cut and remove your own trees? After reading the methods I have listed above it may be worth hiring a professional to come to kill and remove your tree. After killing and removing several trees myself it always amazes me at how long it takes when you don’t have all the right equipment.

For the fastest and easiest way to get a few free quotes from local professionals in your area I highly recommend HomeAdvisor . It’s fast and free!

The nice part about having an arborist kill your tree is you know it will be done right and you won’t have to worry about damaging any property when you cut down and remove the tree. An arborist will have all the right equipment for safely bringing the tree down, chipping the branches which are awesome for the garden or keeping weeds down in your yard and they can remove the wood and stump so you don’t have to worry about it.

What Doesn’t Kill Trees Quickly

There are a lot of ideas on how to kill a tree on the internet. Many of which I have tried and they didn’t work on my Chinese Elms. It may work on your tree but regardless these take a long time to completely kill. Here are a few methods that I would avoid if you’re trying to kill a tree fast. I am convinced that the methods listed below worked for people because their tree was already killed by just cutting it down. They may work but they didn’t work for me.

I followed all the steps. I cut my tree down to a stump, drilled holes all over the stump and filled with salt and water. Then I covered with a tarp and rocks. The tree stump is still alive. I have read where people continued to lift up the tarp and add water to the stump every week for several months which killed the tree but seriously,”Ain’t nobody got time for that!”

Copper Nails

I haven’t personally tried this yet but everything that I have read says it takes over a year to kill the tree. Definitely not the fastest way to kill a tree. Basically, you buy copper nails and nail them around the trunk of the tree. The copper will leach into the tree and slowly kill it after a year or so.

Girdling a tree is where you cut out a ring of bark around the tree. This works well on pine trees, oaks, maples, and trees you wouldn’t need to poison. Girldiling was a method used by Native Americans and Homesteaders to create a reserve of dry dead wood for burning and building their homes. Today it is not practical to girdle a tree the better method would be to just cut it down and remove the tree. I tried girdling on of my Chinese Elms and it did die above where I girdled the tree but below kept sending out shoots.

Diesel & Motor Oil

I have read where people have used diesel or motor oil to kill a tree. I haven’t tried this myself yet but I don’t think it would kill my elms. After cutting your tree to a stump you cover the top with diesel or motor oil and that is supposed to kill a tree.

**I don’t recommend this because I have recently learned that using Diesel like this is very illegal and it doesn’t work.

2 More Fast Tree Killers

I didnt mention above other chemicals that work for killing trees effectively because weighing out all the positive and negatives Tordon is my first choice. Thats why I recommended it first. There are several other tree killers that work well for killing trees quickly.

Homemade Tree Killer

Roundup or Killzall by itself won’t kill the most resilient trees but by mixing a few other chemicals it will do the job every time. Here is the recipe I picked up from the University of Utah Agriculture Extension.

Each of these ingredients needs to be used in their concentrated forms. Add and mix them into a small container like a glass jar.

• 3 Tbls  RoundUp Concentrate  (Glyphosate)- Alternative  Killzall
• 3 Tbls  Hi-Yield Spreader Sticker  (Surfactant)- For increasing absorption and sticking.
• 1 Tbls  Ammonium Sulfate – Increases uptake of the chemical.

Mix these ingredients and apply with a paintbrush to the cambium layer, just inside the bark. Treat immediately upon cutting the tree down. The tree will begin healing itself right away so to have the greatest effect apply within 30 minutes.

You don’t need to paint the whole stump only the outer cambium ring. Unless you already have most of these chemicals on hand it is cheaper to just buy Tordon.

Gordon’s Stump Killer

Gordon’s Stump Killer also works to kill trees quickly however in reading the reviews it looks like it may kill surrounding trees and bushes as well. So if you decide to use this product make sure you don’t mind killing any trees within a 40-foot radius from your tree. I haven’t used it myself but I have read reviews saying it works well. To kill a tree with Gordon’s Stump Killer you would follow the same steps as you would use with Tordon or the homemade roundup mixture. Cut the tree down to a stum and apply it to the outer ring of the tree. Let it sit for a few days and then you are good to remove the stump.

I hope this answers your question of What Kills Trees Quickly. I tried to think of every scenario where you might need to kill a tree fast so hopefully, this article was the solution to your tree situation.

Tree Killer

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What Kills Trees Quickly? [5 Quick Methods]

by Mike updated 4:59 am, 4:59 am

In order to kill trees within 2 weeks or less, the best methods to use are:

• Make several cuts in the bark and spray them with Tordon, a tree-killing herbicide.
• Use a tough brush killer spray like Crossbow or Roundup to kill small trees.
• Cut the tree down safely.
• Use charcoal to burn the stump after killing the tree.
• Hire an arborist to fully remove stubborn trees.

These methods work quickly and get results. Several tree-killing methods—including copper nails or salting the ground—take a very long time to kill trees and are only marginally effective. Additionally, beware of home remedies for killing trees, such as pouring diesel on tree stumps. These methods are poisonous to the soil and illegal in some areas.

Table of Contents

The 5 Fastest Ways to a Kill a Tree

When you are dealing with unwanted trees that pose a threat, such as trees that damage foundations , it’s important to remove them quickly and safely. Below are the most effective methods for killing both small trees and larger trees.

Tree-Killing Herbicide

The number-one method for killing a tree without cutting it down is to use a herbicide designed specifically to attack trees. Tordon is our top choice. You can apply Tordon to freshly cut stumps, gashes in the bark, or inject it into a tree to kill it. The best way to do this is to make downward cuts with a hatchet every 2–3 inches (5–7.5 cm) around the circumference of the tree. Cut through the bark to the white sapwood beneath. Then, pour Tordon into each of these gashes. If you use Tordon this way, it will kill a large tree in only a few weeks.

• This Tordon tree killer is the best product for killing large trees.
• Use a hatchet to make downward cuts in a ring around the tree.
• Make the cuts just deep enough to break through the bark.
• Apply Tordon to the cuts in the bark to kill the tree quickly.
• You can also paint Tordon on freshly cut tree stumps to kill tree roots.

Tordon is essential for killing stubborn trees. If you are cutting down a tree, keep Tordon on hand. After the tree is safely felled, paint Tordon on the stump. This will kill the roots and prevent the tree from growing back.

• Effectively kills stumps with superior results .
• Easy-to-Use blue dye helps you keep track of stump treatment.
• Perfect for both in-season and off-season brush control .

Brush Killer Sprays

If your tree is under 15 feet (4.5 meters) tall, you can kill it by spraying the leaves with the correct product. Although Roundup can be used for this purpose with some success, you’ll get better results with a more powerful herbicide. Crossbow is a tough brush killer designed to kill small trees, shrubs, and vines. Spray the leaves of your tree with a proper mix of Crossbow and water. The tree will be dead in 7–21 days.

• Trees shorter than 15 feet (4.5 meters) can be killed by spraying their leaves with a systemic herbicide.
• This Crossbow herbicide is the best option for killing small trees.
• Crossbow kills trees to the root in 7–21 days.
• Roundup can be used, but crossbow is more powerful, so you’ll have a much higher success rate.

It’s essential to use a systemic herbicide such as Crossbow or Roundup to kill trees. The reason these sprays are so effective is that they infiltrate the plant through the leaves, then kill it down to the roots. A tree sprayed with a high-quality brush killer will not grow back.

• Size: 1 Quart .
• Contains 2-4, D and Triclopyr for control on most unwanted trees and brush.
• You can use this on n on-crop and non-timber areas .

Cut the Tree Down

If you want to get rid of a tree right away, there’s no quicker method than cutting it down. However, it’s important to stay safe while cutting down a tree. To properly control the fall of the tree when cutting it down, follow these steps to fell a tree using wedges. It’s also essential to use a properly serviced chainsaw and enlist the help of an assistant when cutting down a tree.

• Cut down a tree to remove it instantly.
• Be extremely careful when felling a tree. It’s essential to use correct steps when cutting down a tree near your house .
• Cutting a tree down typically kills it instantly.
• To prevent a tree from growing back, paint the stump with Tordon just after felling. This will kill the tree roots.

Cutting a tree down to ground level is an extremely quick way to remove the tree. However, once you’re done cutting you must make sure there is no live tree root growth belowground. To prevent the tree from growing back, paint the cut stump with a stump killer, such as Tordon. Tordon will quickly travel down to the roots and prevent any new growth.

Remove the Stump

Whether you’ve killed a tree with herbicides or by cutting it down, sooner or later you’ll be left with the stump. A stump left in your yard is unsightly, an obstacle, and can invite termites. So, it’s best to remove the stump the easy way . Stump remover products break down the stump in the ground, making it easy to tear out or burn within 1–2 months. This is essential for removing small or large trees.

• Treat your tree stump with this stump remover product in order to get rid of unsightly stumps easily.
• Stump remover breaks down the stump in 1–2 months so you can easily uproot it or burn it.
• If you burn your tree stump, make sure to take fire precautions and monitor the stump as it burns.

Once you’ve used a stump remover product to break down the tree stump, you can burn your tree stump using charcoal . While it’s easy to get rid of a tree trunk by cutting it up for firewood or throwing it away, stumps can be stubborn. Always make sure to complete your tree removal process by getting rid of the stump.

Hire a Professional

If you feel overwhelmed by the task of removing a problem tree among your desirable plants, contact local tree removal companies for quotes. A professional arborist can safely remove even the hardiest trees. Hiring an arborist is the best move if you’re unfamiliar with cutting down trees with a chainsaw. It will keep you safe.

• Even if you kill a tree without cutting it down, you will have to fell and remove the dead tree.
• If you are unfamiliar—or uncomfortable—with using a chainsaw to cut down trees, hire an arborist for the job.

Remember, killing a tree with herbicides is the easy part. Dead trees must then be removed to prevent them from attracting pest insects and rot. So, before you use a herbicide treatment to quickly kill a tree, make a removal plan. It may involve hiring an arborist to cut down your dead tree.

What Home Remedy Kills Trees Quickly?

There are several DIY methods that are praised as tree killers. However, many of these methods work slowly, have extreme negative side effects, or are illegal. Consider the following information before using a homemade tree killer.

How Long Does it Take Salt to Kill a Tree

Spreading salt on the ground can take months or years to kill a tree. So, this is not a fast solution. Plus, salt in the soil poisons the ground. If you spread salt in the entire tree root zone (typically the size of the branch canopy) nothing else will grow there for years. You’ll kill grass and garden plants. Plus, natural water and rainfall will spread the salt throughout your yard, wiping out more than just a problem tree.

How Do You Kill a Tree With Bleach?

Bleach is not an effective tree killer. Bleach sprayed on a tree will dry out the leaves, but it won’t kill tree roots. So, you may kill a very small, weak tree by killing it with bleach. A stubborn tree, or an invasive species of tree, is very likely to bounce back after a bleach treatment. Don’t use bleach as a tree killer.

How Fast Will a Copper Nail Kill a Tree?

Hammering copper nails into a tree trunk can take years to kill a tree. The reason for this is that the copper has to leach out of the nail to gradually poison the tree. A large tree may live on for years, even if you drive an entire ring of copper nails into the trunk.

Is Killing a Tree with Diesel Illegal?

In many local municipalities, it is illegal to use diesel or motor oil to kill a tree or tree stump. The reason is that diesel poisons the ground. You may kill the tree, but you will also kill other plants as well as helpful soil microorganisms. Tree-killing herbicides, on the other hand, are designed to kill the tree, then break down so new plants can grow in the area.

What is the Fastest Way to Kill a Tree?

The fastest and best way to kill a tree is to make cuts in the bark and apply a tree-killing herbicide, such as Tordon. This will kill your tree in 1–3 weeks. Spraying the leaves of a small tree with Roundup or Crossbow will also kill the tree in just a few weeks. You can instantly kill a tree by cutting it down. However, it’s best to paint the cut stump with Tordon to prevent the tree from growing back from the roots. Once you’ve cut down your tree, make sure to remove the stump. By using these quick methods, you can remove a problem tree quickly and prevent it from sprouting again.

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How do people make paper out of trees, and why not use something else?

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Curious Kids is a series for children of all ages. If you have a question you’d like an expert to answer, send it to [email protected] .

How do people make paper out of trees, and why not use something else? – Cooper H., age 6, St. Louis, Missouri

Paper is an important part of modern life. People use it in school, at work, to make artwork and books, to wrap presents and much more. Trees are the most common ingredient for paper these days, but people have been taking notes and creating artworks for a very long time using lots of other kinds of surfaces and materials.

Humans painted pictures on cave walls during the Ice Age . The oldest known drawing, found on a small rock in South Africa, was made 73,000 years ago .

Written language came a long time later. The Sumerians , in what is now Iraq, and the Egyptians used pictures in the first written languages more than 5,000 years ago .

These people etched cuneiform and hieroglyph pictures that formed their languages into rock. They also wrote on slabs of wet clay, using a pen or brush made from a reed. Sometimes they baked these slabs hard in ovens to preserve them.

The Egyptians pioneered the first paper. Papyrus came from a 15-foot-tall (4.5 meter) plant of the same name that grew in marshlands along the Nile River. They cut the stalk into thin strips, pressed them together and dried them into the long rolls you can now see preserved in museums. They wrote in ink, which didn’t smudge or blur on this new paper. Papyrus made it easy to carry their writing with them in rolled up scrolls – much easier than carting around heavy clay tablets and rocks.

Wood tablets covered in beeswax became a popular writing material in Greece, Rome and Egypt. Children used them in school as you might use notebooks today. Heating the wax made it easy to erase the writing and reuse the tablets.

The Romans took the next step, making books with papyrus pages. Special manuscripts used pages made of treated calf skin.

In China, ancient writing materials included bone, bronze and wood . But then, a little more than 2,000 years ago, the Chinese invented a different kind of paper . Early on, it was made from the hemp plant , washed and soaked in water until it was soft. Then it was beaten into a gooey pulp with a wooden mallet and smoothed into a flat frame to dry.

It took Europeans another 800 years to finally start making paper. They cut up, soaked and treated linen and cotton rags. A half a century later, in 1690, the first rag-paper mill came to the American Colonies.

But as people used more and more paper, rags grew scarce. There were more trees than rags, so trees became the raw material. The first U.S. newspaper that was printed on paper made from ground-up wood was the Jan. 14, 1863, edition of the Boston Weekly Journal.

So how do people make paper out of trees today? Loggers cut trees, load them onto trucks and bring them to mills. Machines slice off the bark, and big wood chippers chop the logs into small bits. Those chips are boiled into a soup that looks like toothpaste. To get out any lumps, it is smashed flat, dried and cut up into sheets of paper.

The entire process, from planting a seedling to buying your school notebook, takes a very long time. Just growing the trees takes 10 to 20 years.

Making tons of paper from trees can harm the planet . Humans cut down 80,000 to 160,000 trees around the world every day, and use many of them to make paper. Some of those trees come from tree farms. But loggers also cut down forests for paper, which means that animals and birds lose their homes.

Cutting forests down also contributes to climate change , and paper factories pollute the air . After you throw paper in the trash, a truck takes it to a dump, where it takes six to nine years to decompose.

That’s why recycling is important . It saves a lot of trees, slows climate change and helps protect endangered animals, birds and all creatures that rely on forests for their homes and food.

Did you know that it takes 24 trees to make one ton of paper, which is about 200,000 sheets? You may use a piece of paper one or two times, but it can be recycled five to seven times . Recycling one ton of paper saves 17 trees. If it’s recycled seven times, it saves 117 trees.

So if paper isn’t good for the environment, why don’t people write on something else? The answer: They do. With computers, tablets and cellphones, people use much less paper than in the past. Maybe a day will come when we won’t use paper at all – or will save it for very special books and artworks.

Hello, curious kids! Do you have a question you’d like an expert to answer? Ask an adult to send your question to [email protected] . Please tell us your name, age and the city where you live.

And since curiosity has no age limit – adults, let us know what you’re wondering, too. We won’t be able to answer every question, but we will do our best.

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6 Ways to Chemically Kill a Tree

Follow these tips for a safe and effective tree removal

ThoughtCo / Nusha Ashjaee

• The Science Of Growing Trees
• Tree Identification Basics
• Arboriculture
• Tree Structure & Physiology
• Individual Hardwood Species
• Pests, Diseases, and Wildfires
• Habitat Profiles
• Marine Life
• B.S., Forest Resource Management, University of Georgia

Homeowners usually welcome trees on their property. But some trees are invasive species that, over time, can take over a garden. Other trees may overwhelm your home, digging roots into the foundation or limiting access to light.

Whatever the reason, if you're ready to kill a tree, you'll need to review your options and make an informed choice about the best method for your situation. If you're concerned about chemicals or are removing a tree in an area where you grow fruits or vegetables, you might choose to physically remove the tree. If you're comfortable using chemical herbicide, however, a number of options are available.

Chemical herbicides are effective and relatively low cost. On the other hand, they involve using potentially harmful substances in your own backyard. There are ways to mitigate the risk, but you might prefer to avoid chemicals altogether. In that case, you have two options for tree removal: cutting down or starving the tree.

Cutting Down a Tree

If you're removing a very large tree or are uncomfortable using a chainsaw, you can hire someone to take down your tree. Many people, however, simply cut down their own trees. Once the tree has been cut to a stump, you'll need to grind the stump to the ground.

Unfortunately, cutting and grinding might not be enough to kill your tree. In some cases, trees will continue to sprout from the stump. If this happens, you'll need to systematically look for new sprouts and cut them down whenever they appear. By cutting the sprouts, you deny the roots the energy they need to continue to grow.

If neither grinding the stump nor cutting sprouts is enough to kill your tree, you'll have to dig down and painstakingly remove the roots from the soil. The notorious buckthorn bush/tree is an example of a species that can be killed only by completely removing the roots.

Starving a Tree

The bark of a tree is a system for transporting soil nutrients and moisture to the branches and leaves. With some trees, fully removing the bark around the circumference of the tree's trunk will effectively starve it to death. This technique, called "girdling," often is effective, but it isn't foolproof. In some cases, trees can bypass or "jump" the girdle.

To get the best results, remove all layers of bark in a circle around the tree, cutting about 1.5 inches deep with a hatchet or ax. The girdle will need to be about 2 inches wide to kill a small tree and up to 8 inches wide for a large tree.    

Chemically Killing a Tree

Herbicides can kill trees and, properly applied, be safe for the environment. The most environmentally friendly options involve applying herbicide to a specific area of the tree. In some cases, however, the only viable option is to use herbicidal spray. There are five major types of herbicides, only some of which are rated for home or crop use. Triclopyr amine and triclopyr ester are growth regulator-type herbicides, while glyphosate and imazapyr kill plants by interfering with the synthesis of plant proteins. Aminopyralid is primarily effective on legumes such as kudzu and may not be appropriate for your needs. Here are six ways to chemically kill a tree:

• Cut Surface Treatments: This technique involves creating a pathway through the bark so that herbicide can be introduced into the plant's vascular tissue . Start by making a series of downward cuts around the circumference of the tree with an ax or hatchet, leaving the frill (cut section of bark) connected to the tree. Immediately apply the selected herbicide into the cuts. Avoid spring applications when sap flowing from the wound will prevent good absorption.
• Injection Treatments: Use specialized tree injection equipment to administer a specific amount of herbicide into the tree when the cut is made. Treatments are effective when injections are made every 2 to 6 inches around the tree.   For best results, treat trees 1.5 inches or more in diameter at chest height. Injection is often handled by a tree removal company because it requires an investment in equipment.
• Stump Treatments: After  cutting a tree down, you can minimize the possibility of regrowth by immediately treating the freshly cut surface with herbicide to prevent sprouting. On larger trees, treat only the outer 2 to 3 inches, including the cambium layer, of the stump (the internal heartwood of the tree is already dead). For trees 3 inches or less in diameter, treat the entire cut surface.  
• Basal Bark Treatments: Apply herbicide to the lower 12 to 18 inches of the tree trunk (on the bark) from early spring to mid-fall.   Some species can be treated during winter. Use herbicide spray mixed with oil until the bark is saturated. The low-volatile ester formulations are the only oil-soluble products registered for this use. This method is effective on trees of all sizes.
• Foliage Treatments: Foliar spraying is a common method of applying herbicides to brush up to 15 feet tall. Make applications from early summer to late September, depending on the choice of herbicide. Treatments are least effective during very hot weather and when trees are under severe water stress.
• Soil Treatments: Certain soil treatments applied evenly to the soil surface can move into the root zone of targeted plants after ample rainfall or overhead moisture. Banding (also called lacing or streaking) applies concentrated solution to the soil in a line or band spaced every 2 to 4 feet. You can use this type of application to kill large numbers of trees.  

Important Tips

Before starting a tree removal project, learn how to use herbicides safely and legally. Herbicide treatments of roots or soil (or sprayed herbicides) can kill vegetation unintentionally.

• Call your local Cooperative Extension Service for detailed chemical information pertaining to chemical treatments. You're responsible for the chemicals you use and their ultimate effects.
• When using frilling or cut stump methods of treatment , apply the herbicide immediately so that your tree doesn't have a chance to start healing itself and you can achieve maximum absorption.
• Plant roots can share vascular tissue through root grafting, which occurs primarily within the same species but can occur between plants within the same genus. Your herbicide can move from a treated tree to an untreated tree, killing or injuring it.
• Once the herbicide is released from a tree, it can be available for uptake by another. The serious consequence is that a treated tree may release herbicide back into the environment, injuring nearby trees and vegetation.
• Adding stains or dyes to the herbicide solution substantially increases applicator accuracy. Applicators use the dyes to monitor treated trees, so they are less likely to miss or respray targeted trees. Use of stains can also indicate personal exposure.
• Avoid applying herbicide in areas where it can injure other plants. Assume that tree roots extend a distance equal to the height of a tree in dry climates and equal to half the tree height in wetter environments.

Steltzer, Hank. " Removing unwanted trees from your woodland: Part I ." Green Horizons vol. 10, no. 1, 2006.

" Removal of Invasive Trees: Wrenching and Girdling, Guide to Volunteer Organizations ." Grow Zone , City of Austin (Texas) Watershed Protection. 

Steltzer, Hank. " Removing unwanted trees from your woodland: Part 2 ." Green Horizons, vol. 10, no. 2, 2006.

Enloe, S. F. and K. A. Langeland. " Herbicides to Kill Invasive Trees in Home Landscapes and Surrounding Natural Areas ." Publication #SS-AGR-127 . University of Florida IFAS Extension, 2016. 

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How to Kill a Tree: 5 Different Methods

TT / Getty Images

Trees add beauty and value to your home, but some grow and spread like weeds until you reach a point where you're ready to kill them. Other reasons to kill a tree might be an inconvenient or hazardous location; blocking a walkway or too close to your home or outbuildings. It might be impeding electric lines or internet and cable connections or even rooting into your plumbing system. The tree might be damaged or just doesn't fit in your landscape.

Digging or pulling up seedlings or saplings is one way to kill and remove young trees. You can kill large trees, too, but may need professional help with removal. Calling in a tree service is always a smart option with a large, mature tree adjacent to structures like fencing, buildings or electric wires. Here are five ways to tackle a tree removal project on your own.

Methods for killing a tree often include using a backpack, pump or hand sprayer to apply herbicides formulated for woody plants. Always follow label instructions and practice cautionary recommendations including wearing eye and skin protection.

Weedy trees tend to pop up in flowerbeds, under hedges and in gardens with plants that attract pollinators and other wildlife. They produce seeds carried by birds, rodents and insects that root in and are usually easy to pull or dig out when discovered early. If the young tree is sapling size (up to 5 inches in diameter) be sure to dig out the tap root. If you run into a tough root system you can try watering to loosen the roots or cut and spot treat them with an herbicide formulated for woody plants.

Cut It Down

Trees larger than saplings can be cut down. Use a pruning saw or chain saw to begin removing branches at the bottom, working to the top of the tree until just the trunk remains. Allow clearance for the height of the tree, and cut the trunk close to ground level. A guide rope can be attached to the upper portion of the trunk to control the direction of the fall. Immediately spray the stump with herbicide to prevent sprouting and accelerate decomposition.

Cutting the tree down is ultimately the safest option in the long term. A dead tree that is still standing is hazardous to your property.

Girdle the Trunk

Girdling is the practice of removing layers of growth in rings around the circumference of the unwanted tree. This method doesn't require the use of chemical herbicides but it typically takes up to five years for the tree to die and fall.

All trees have layers of growth that serve different functions. They are the xylem or heartwood, cambium, phloem and bark. For girdling to be effective, the three outer layers should be removed down to the xylem. Use a chainsaw, axe or hatchet to cut two rings around the trunk about 6 inches apart. The cuts should be 1/2 inch to 1 1/2 inches deep depending on tree size and located beneath the lowest branches. Scrub the exposed xylem first with soapy water and then with rubbing alcohol. Alternatively, applying herbicide to the xylem will yield quicker results

Frilling, like girdling, is a method of cutting into layers of wood around the circumference of the trunk. Adjoining or overlapping cuts are angled downward with the cut material left attached at the bottom. Achieving the desired result with both frilling and girdling depends on the species and age of the tree. Frilling cuts can heal over more quickly which makes girdling the preferred method. Using an axe or hatchet, it also is time consuming and labor intensive. Without the use of herbicide, frilling is a natural, but long-term approach to killing a tree.

Basal Bark Spray

Basal bark spray is recommended for sapling sized trees with trunks no larger than 4 to 6 inches in diameter. The lower 12 to 18 inches of the trunk is sprayed with an oil-based herbicide formulated to penetrate bark and kill the tree along with any developing basal buds. Product is usually applied using a back pack unit or pressurized hand-held sprayer. Care should be taken to prevent ground saturation through run-off and overspray which can damage adjacent woody plants and tree roots. Herbicide uptake can be a slow process depending on species so a tree should not be cut down until six months after basal bark application.

It depends quite a bit on the size and species of the tree. Seedlings and saplings can be killed by pulling, digging and herbicides. Injecting herbicide kills larger trees faster than natural methods.

Repeatedly spraying a seedling with undiluted vinegar or girdling or frilling a larger tree.

Bleach does not kill a tree but it can cause a stump to decompose more quickly.

Foliar spray is not particularly effective when it comes to killing trees. It's very easy to contaminate other near by trees by accident. It is better to use a hack and squirt method where you chop or cut into the bark and cambium layer, then spray triclopyr or a similar herbicide into the wound. It takes less product, is more effective, and is less likely to contaminate other trees and plants.

It's possible to use copper nails to kill a tree, but it's tricky and there are better, more effective methods. You need to drive many nails all the way around the tree trunk with 1/2 inch spacing between each one. It would be so many nails that you would essentially be girdling the tree. Hammering nails into your tree opens it up to contamination from fungi, but if you are intent on killing it that might not matter much.

Anatomy of a Tree, USDA

Controlling Undesirable Trees, Shrubs, and Vines in Your Woodland , Ohio State University

Homemade Weed Control - What works well (and is safe!) and what should be avoided . Northwest Michigan Invasive Species Network

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How to Kill a Tree with or without Chemicals

Last Updated: September 10, 2023 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Lauren Kurtz and by wikiHow staff writer, Eric McClure . Lauren Kurtz is a Naturalist and Horticultural Specialist. Lauren has worked for Aurora, Colorado managing the Water-Wise Garden at Aurora Municipal Center for the Water Conservation Department. She earned a BA in Environmental and Sustainability Studies from Western Michigan University in 2014. There are 12 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 504,564 times.

Trees are great as long as they aren’t in the way, but they can become a nuisance if they’re at risk of damaging your property. While you can always pay a professional crew to show up and cut the tree down for you, why not save some cash and kill the tree yourself? In this article, we’ll break down all of the options you have when it comes to putting an end to a tree’s growth and killing it.

Things You Should Know

• Girdle the tree by carving a ring of bark out of it. This will stop growth and allow the tree to die out naturally.
• Kill the tree quickly with chemicals. Use a specialized basal bark treatment, or coat the roots repeatedly in glysophate.
• If you have a smaller tree, just cut it down yourself. Alternatively, you can keep cutting the leaves off and wait for the tree to perish.

Girdle the tree.

• This process is known as girdling. Cutting the bark interrupts the flow of sap between the roots and crown of the tree, which slowly starves the tree.
• Girdling is the easiest and most popular method for killing a tree without chemicals or herbicides, but the tree will take months to die from the process. You can add herbicides to the wounds to speed the process along if you’d like.
• You can slow the healing process down by painting the circle you cut out of the tree.

Use a basal bark treatment.

• Basal bark treatments are designed to spread the herbicide through the roots and branches of the tree. This is the most efficient way to poison a tree.
• Pro tip: add some dye to the solution. When the color fades from the base of the tree, you know it’s time to reapply the treatment.

Apply herbicide to the roots of the tree.

• You can either apply the herbicide to the soil surrounding the tree, or dig out the soil to expose the roots and apply the herbicide directly. Both options will be effective.
• Glyphosate is a potential carcinogen, so handle it carefully and don’t skip the protective gear. [4] X Research source

Opt for injectable poison.

• Girdling and herbicide are consistent options, but injectable poison can have varying results. This may be especially fast, or it could take years for the tree to die out entirely, but it’s a good option if you want a shot at a faster removal. [6] X Research source
• This is also a great way to apply poison without anybody really noticing. The holes you drill shouldn’t be especially obvious unless someone looked really hard at the bark.

Spray the foliage with herbicide repeatedly.

• This will take a lot longer than just treating the roots, but it may be preferable to treating the trunk or roots if you’re worried about nearby plants.
• This option isn’t great for larger trees or leaves that are hard to reach or cover.

Pour Epsom salt in the roots.

• How long this takes depends on the age and health of the tree. It could take 6 months or so for a smaller, weaker tree, or multiple years for a strong adult.
• Fun fact, this is where “salting the Earth” came from! Large amounts of salt will destroy basically any vegetation.

Prune the leafy branches repeatedly.

• Whenever you see leafy greens regrowing, cut the growth back. The tree will eventually give up and stop growing.

Cut the tree down.

• Use an axe to cut the trunk at a 45-degree angle to the ground (in the direction you want the tree to fall). Plan 2 escape paths, and get out of the way as the tree falls.
• You can leave the stump when you’re done or dig it out of the ground. If the stump is really entrenched, you may need to hire a crew to do this.

Let a destructive pest kill the tree for you.

• Keep in mind, the caterpillars, beetles, or whatever bugs you introduce are going to go somewhere else after they’re done with your tree. This isn’t a great option if you don’t want to kill other nearby trees.

Expert Q&A

• There’s an old wives’ tale that driving a piece of copper into a tree trunk will cause it to die over time. That won’t actually work, though. In fact, trees love copper. [12] X Research source Thanks Helpful 2 Not Helpful 1
• Dead trees are much more likely to fall after the dead root system has weakened. Even if the invasive root system is no longer a problem, get the tree removed if there’s a risk it wall fall into your home or on somebody. [13] X Research source Thanks Helpful 2 Not Helpful 2
• Whether you treat the stump or cut down the tree after it is dead, you may still want to remove the stump as well. [14] X Research source Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.fs.usda.gov/t-d/pubs/pdfpubs/pdf99242809/pdf99242809pt01.pdf
• ↑ https://extension.psu.edu/basal-bark-herbicidal-treatment
• ↑ https://extension.psu.edu/use-glyphosate-with-care-near-trees
• ↑ https://www.reuters.com/investigates/special-report/who-iarc-glyphosate/
• ↑ https://www.gov.uk/guidance/kill-diseased-trees-by-using-chemicals
• ↑ https://www.washingtonpost.com/dc-md-va/2023/02/10/dc-poisoned-heritage-trees/
• ↑ https://dof.virginia.gov/wp-content/uploads/How-to-Kill-a-Tree_poster.pdf
• ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-kill-tree-stumps/
• ↑ https://extension.missouri.edu/publications/g1958
• ↑ https://ipm.ucanr.edu/PMG/C107/m107apyoungtrees.html
• ↑ https://www.theguardian.com/notesandqueries/query/0,5753,-2347,00.html
• ↑ https://seattleaudubon.org/2022/03/07/dead-and-dying-trees/

About This Article

If you want to kill a tree with a pesticide spray, mix the pesticide ahead of time and then chop down with an axe to make a 2” deep cut into the tree. Next, spread the wound open and spray the pesticide into the cut. Repeat that process a few times on different sides of the tree, based on the directions for your pesticide. Using this method, the tree should die in as little as 6 weeks. Read more to learn how to kill a tree by girdling it or chopping it down. Did this summary help you? Yes No

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How to Kill a Tree You Don't Want Around

These tips on how to kill a tree will help you get the job done safely.

seven75 / Getty Images

There are lots of reasons to plant new trees , but sometimes you may need to know how to kill a tree that is growing where you don't want it. Say, a previous owner of your home planted a tree too close to the foundation. Or perhaps unwanted tree seedlings have popped up in inconvenient places around your yard. Maybe you've got a tree that's considered invasive in your area or causes severe allergies to you or a loved one. Here's how to kill a tree in your yard so it won't grow back.

Reasons to Kill a Tree

The first thing to do is determine your reason for removing the tree : Is it a lovely tree in the wrong location? Is it a large tree with a dangerous lean that poses a danger to people or property? Are too many trees planted too closely together, restricting the healthy growth of each tree? Understanding why you want to remove a tree can help you avoid making the mistake of planting the wrong tree in the future. 

There are many ways to kill a tree accidentally, including:

• Too much or too little water.
• Too much, or the wrong type of fertilizer.
• Compacted soil from vehicles or equipment driving over the root zone.
• Damage to the roots or trunk from lawnmowers or string trimmers.
• Incorrectly applying chemicals.

Killing a tree intentionally is another matter entirely.

A Note on Safety 

Wear personal protective equipment (PPE) whenever you work outdoors. A sharp twig in the eye can quickly mean a hospital visit, and sitting in the emergency room waiting for stitches from a nasty cut is a lousy way to spend time that could otherwise be spent gardening. Safety glasses and gardening gloves are usually enough for simple tasks like digging and pruning. Bigger tasks require more PPE, like safety-toe boots or a hard hat, especially if you're working with anything overhead or heavy.

Always follow equipment manufacturer’s recommendations and herbicide label instructions when you use any equipment or chemicals.

Ways to Kill a Tree on Purpose

The best way to kill a tree you don't want depends on its size. Tree seedlings are relatively easy to remove, but obviously a mature shade tree will require a very different approach.

Weed It Out 

The seeds of some tree species are easily spread around by the wind or wildlife such as squirrels and birds. The resulting seedlings usually can be pulled from the ground by hand or with a standard garden weeding tool such as a hori-hori knife. The earlier you identify the unwanted seedlings, the smaller the roots will be, making the task faster and easier. And making the removal of these seedlings a regular part of your garden maintenance will ensure you don't end up with much harder to remove saplings where you don't want them.

Dig It Out 

If the tree is small enough, the soil is soft enough, and your back is strong enough, the best way to remove a tree is to dig it out.

• If the trunk is 2-3 inches thick and the top of the tree is not tall and heavy, cut the top off around chest height and remove any remaining lower branches.
• Use a sharp spade, shovel, or ax to cut the tree’s roots in a circle around the trunk. The further away from the trunk you dig, the smaller the roots will be. Try digging about 1.5-2 feet away from the trunk to start.
• Once you circle the entire tree, use the trunk as a lever to pry the tree out of the ground. You should be able to feel where any remaining roots are.
• If the tree has a tap root (a root that grows straight down from the bottom), you might need to dig under the tree on one side to sever the tap root with a shovel, hand saw, or hatchet.
• Knock the remaining soil off the root ball with a shovel or trowel and tamp the soil back down into the hole.
• Add some extra soil to account for the loss of the roots. Otherwise, you will have a permanent depression in the ground.

Girdling and Frilling

Girdling is a traditional method of killing a tree without cutting it down. It involves cutting a ring completely around the tree through the bark and the cambium with a saw. The cambium is the thin layer of cells under the bark that moves water and nutrients throughout the tree. Cut two parallel rings a few inches apart or one ring 2-3 inches wide around the tree. Usually, 1/2-1 inch is deep enough to girdle the tree successfully.

Another option is frilling , which involves a ring of downward-facing cuts with an ax or hatchet all the way around the tree. Severing the cambium is often enough to kill the tree, but frilling, and occasionally girdling, is often followed up with a water-soluble herbicide sprayed directly into the wound immediately after cutting. This herbicide moves into the tree’s roots, stopping further growth.

One benefit of girdling and frilling is that it leaves standing dead trees. When safely located away from any people or property, these trees become a habitat for nesting wildlife. It also allows the wood to cure for use in the fireplace.

A girdled tree can be left standing for a year to allow the wood to dry, and then be cut to the ground and split for firewood .

Cut It Down 

Often, a tree is too large to dig out of the ground without massive (and expensive) equipment. In this case, the best option may be to cut it down. Cutting down a tree is a fast way to remove an unwanted plant, but it can also be extremely dangerous. A modest-sized tree’s trunk, branches, and leaves can weigh hundreds or thousands of pounds.

Most trees above 4-5 inches DBH (diameter at breast height, a standard measurement for trees measuring the trunk’s diameter at 4.5 feet above the ground) are very heavy at the top and dangerous to cut down yourself. An ISA-certified arborist or reputable professional tree care service has the experience and equipment to handle the job safely.

Professional arborists can sometimes safely drop a large tree straight to the ground. They may need to climb the tree with ropes and safety gear or use a bucket truck to get into the canopy, where they rig the limbs with ropes to safely lower the heavy pieces of wood to the ground. In some instances, the tree is located such that the only way to remove it safely is with a crane. Contact several reputable tree care services for quotes and to discuss options. Always make sure that your tree care services are insured. Your homeowner’s insurance will not likely cover contractors. 

No matter the size of the tree, if you choose to cut down a tree yourself , always wear your PPE and use sharp tools. Sharp tools cut better and are safer to use than dull tools.

Erica George Dines

Dealing with the Stump

Once the tree is on the ground, you can grind out the remaining stump with a stump grinder or leave the stump to decompose naturally. Letting nature do the job can take many years, although products are available to speed up the decomposition process. Visit your local home and garden store to see what is available. Or you can incorporate the stump into your garden design as a pedestal for planters, or even hollow it out and turn the stump into a planter itself.

Stump grinding is dangerous and should be left to the professionals. This is an extra expense, but an otherwise healthy tree often can resprout from the stump, creating more work in the future. To stop the stump from resprouting, apply an herbicide labeled for stump or basal bark applications. These chemicals should be used according to the label on the product as quickly as possible after cutting down the tree to be effective. The chemical is absorbed into the tree’s roots and kills them.

Working with Chemicals

Many herbicides are labeled to kill trees and woody brush. Visit your local landscape or garden supply store to see what is available in your region and to discuss the best options for your needs. 

In addition to using herbicide when girdling, frilling, or on a cut stump as previously mentioned, you can consider basal bark herbicide treatments. This involves spraying trees at the base of the trunk with an oil-soluble herbicide. It works best on young trees and trees with thin bark. Don’t expect immediate results. Basal bark treatments can take weeks or months to be effective. 

In some cases, such as with invasive trees like the tree of heaven ( Ailanthus altissima ), simply cutting down the tree or damaging it without using an herbicide causes hundreds of suckers to grow from the roots. Even cutting the tree and treating the cut stump with an herbicide labeled for woody plants is not enough for some extremely vigorous trees like the tree of heaven. In this instance, the “hack and squirt” method is often recommended.

Hack and squirt involves making several downward-facing cuts in a tree with an ax or hatchet without girdling it and then spraying the wounds with an herbicide. This process allows the tree to live long enough to fully absorb the chemical, killing it without triggering the sucker growth from the roots.

The Label Is the Law 

Don't be tempted by the chemical cocktails “guaranteed” to kill a tree that you may find on the internet. Be aware that all pesticide labels clearly state: “It is a violation of Federal law to use this product in a manner inconsistent with its labeling.” This statement means using or applying the chemical in any way not noted on the label is against the law . The laws are designed to protect both you and the environment when the chemical is used.

For instance, an herbicide product may be legally applied at a specific concentration but illegal in an undiluted form. Sometimes, products with the same active ingredient but different product names each have different labels. One may be legal to apply, while another is illegal for your purposes, even though they are the same ingredients. Herbicide labels are easy to find online and are always attached to the packaging. Do your research to avoid unknowingly breaking the law. It is better to be safe than sorry.

You can find more information about herbicides on the Environmental Protection Agency's website , or contact your state’s pesticide regulatory agency to learn more about using herbicides in your area.

Dan Piassick

What to Do with Dead Trees

Killing a tree can be hard work, but you must still deal with the resulting debris. Dead trees, standing and lying on the ground, are a necessary part of a healthy ecosystem. If it's an appropriate look for your property and there is no risk of it falling and damaging or injuring someone or something, then consider leaving the dead tree standing as habitat for birds and other wildlife . Otherwise, move the downed limbs, trunk, and stump elsewhere on your property to reap the benefits of dead wood without the debris cluttering your landscape.

The remaining wood can be split for firewood, burned in an outdoor firepit , chipped in a wood chipper for mulch, or hauled away for disposal. Not all wood is suitable for burning in a fireplace. If you are unsure whether the wood is suitable for splitting and burning, play it safe and don’t burn it in your house. Contact your municipality and waste disposal company for information on preparing the wood for haul-off and disposal.

You’ve already done the hard part, so while you are at it, plant a new tree in the right place somewhere else in your yard. Select the right tree and plant it correctly to support wildlife and bring beauty to your property for years.

Related Articles

How to kill a tree (that’s become a nuisance)

When there’s no alternative but to kill a tree (and you’re on the right side of the law), here’s what you need to do

Let’s get this straight right from the start: we aren't telling you how to kill a tree because we are advocating tree destruction. We’re all for as much tree-growing as possible. However, sometimes there are legitimate reasons why you might need to kill a tree.

For instance? Well, sometimes trees self-seed in your garden, but the tree species is totally inappropriate for the size of your plot. Or the tree might just not be what you want in a particular position – or at all.

A tree might also cause damage to your home either with its roots, or its branches in some circumstances. Do note, though, that we’re talking substantial trees here and, for the most part, trees near buildings don’t cause damage.

• For more garden ideas and design advice, go to our dedicated page

There’s one other thing to consider when you’re contemplating killing a tree. It’s possible that it’s subject to a tree preservation order (TPO) . These are made to protect trees that bring benefit to the local area and, if this is the case with your tree – and you can check with your local planning authority – you would need permission to go ahead.

Even if a tree isn’t protected by a TPO, if you live in a conservation area, you’ll need to inform the local planning authority before you work on a tree if its diameter is greater than 7.5cm. Find out more from your authority.

So, that all said, if you need to kill a tree and can legitimately go ahead, here’s how to do it.

How to kill a tree

1. Chopping down the tree

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You’ll need to chop the tree down first. Only use a chainsaw if you’re confident to operate it; the alternative is an axe but for either you will need to take every safety precaution, wearing gloves and safety glasses. You‘ll also need to make sure that when you fell it the tree won’t hurt anyone or damage your house or other structures or planting in the garden. Any doubts? Call in a qualified tree surgeon. Tree much bigger than you are? We'd suggest a tree surgeon again. The potential for accidents is high. 

Chopping the tree down is only part of the job, though. With the stump and roots left in the earth, some trees will respond by regrowing with vigour so you’ll be back to square one. 

2. Tackle the stump

If it’s small enough, you can dig up the stump. Alternatively, consider using a stump killer like Vitax SBK Tree Stump Killer , which can be painted on, sprayed on, or applied with a watering can. 

<a href="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=33642&GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Famazon.co.uk%2FVitax-5BKTS250-Stump-Killer-Concentrate%2Fdp%2FB07NWZ8TFT%3Ftag%3Dhawk-future-21%26ascsubtag%3Dhawk-custom-tracking-21" data-link-merchant="Amazon UK"" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Vitax SBK Tree Stump Killer kills at the root to stop regrowth. Use it during autumn and winter, and be aware that a repeat application after six weeks may be required. 

3. Use ring-barking or girdling to kill the tree?

Heard about ring-barking, otherwise known as girdling, as a method of killing a tree? This isn’t a strategy to use in your garden. The technique, which involves deliberately removing the bark around the trunk of the tree, can kill the tree. However, it won’t do so immediately, so you’ll be left with a standing tree for a while to come plus you’d still need to fell it with due care and attention after that before it toppled of its own accord.

• Best small garden trees : 6 gorgeous growers for your garden
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Sarah is a freelance journalist and editor writing for websites, national newspapers, and magazines. She’s spent most of her journalistic career specialising in homes – long enough to see fridges become smart, decorating fashions embrace both minimalism and maximalism, and interiors that blur the indoor/outdoor link become a must-have. She loves testing the latest home appliances, revealing the trends in furnishings and fittings for every room, and investigating the benefits, costs and practicalities of home improvement. It's no big surprise that she likes to put what she writes about into practice, and is a serial house revamper. For Realhomes.com, Sarah reviews coffee machines and vacuum cleaners, taking them through their paces at home to give us an honest, real life review and comparison of every model.

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How To Kill A Tree: Killing Trees In Your Garden

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While we mostly enjoy the presence of trees in our garden, there are times when they can become a nuisance. Trees are just plants and any plant can become a weed, and knowing how to kill a tree is no different from killing a weed. There are several ways how to kill trees; let's take a look at a few.

Killing a Tree by Girdling

Remove the bark completely around the circumference of the trees. This way how to kill a tree is called girdling . This is one of the most effective methods for killing trees as it will always work. The tree will be unable to transport nutrients from the leaves to the roots and will die in a matter of weeks.

How to Kill Trees by Paving Around Them

Knowing how to kill tree roots is the same as knowing how to kill a tree. Tree roots need to breathe and if they are suffocated, the tree will die. Paving over tree roots, even mulching too deeply over tree roots, will slowly suffocate the tree and will end up killing trees that have their roots covered.

How to Kill a Tree with Salt

In wars past, salting the earth was how traitors were punished. Land that has salt added to it will not support life, even tree life. Be aware that salting will end up killing trees, grass and any vegetative life in the immediate area. Also, it may be quite some time before anything else grows there.

Methods for Killing Trees with Herbicide

Herbicides can be very effective for dealing with zombie trees that have been cut down, but continue to grow back. On a hot dry day, cut back the tree as much as possible and paint the fresh cuts on the tree with a full strength herbicide. Also, try making fresh cuts on the tree or drilling into the tree trunk and inserting herbicide into the wound. Please note that it is your responsibility to follow all Federal, state and local laws and regulations regarding the use of herbicides.

How to Kill Trees by Cutting Them Down

Cutting down a tree is among the most effective methods for killing trees. Start with cutting the outer limbs and continue inward. Once the limbs have been safely removed, cut down the main trunk. Drill into the remaining truck several times. If you would like to complete how to kill tree roots, fill the holes with salt, herbicide or nitrogen. Once the tree stump is dead, it can be chopped out easily. Trees, while sometimes lovely, are not always growing in the best place. Wondering how to kill tree weeds or what is the best methods for killing trees does not go against the norm. Learning how to kill trees safely and effectively can help keep your garden safe and beautiful. Note : Any recommendations pertaining to the use of chemicals are for informational purposes only. Chemical control should only be used as a last resort, as organic approaches are safer and more environmentally friendly.

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Heather Rhoades founded Gardening Know How in 2007. She holds degrees from Cleveland State University and Northern Kentucky University. She is an avid gardener with a passion for community, and is a recipient of the Master Gardeners of Ohio Lifetime Achievement Award.

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What are some invasive trees you should never plant in your yard? Click here to find out.

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Killing A Tree with Bleach – Yes it is possible!

Bleach is one of the most common household items in the world. By some, it is also regarded as a tree killer. How effective is bleach really is in controlling the growth of unwanted plants?

Bleach is not designed to control tree growth, but it will harm them. It is not an effective compound to kill trees or tree stumps because it is not systematic in nature, but in some cases, it can be used successfully.

If you are looking to remove a tree, a stump, or trim a tree, use the form on our tree & stump removal page to get estimates from a local company.

Let’s take a look at whether bleach should be used for killing plants and trees and what is the correct method for doing so.

Table of Contents

How Does Bleach Affect a Tree?

Bleach is not systemic in nature – this means that it doesn’t get absorbed as well as herbicides designed to kill trees. Because of the low absorption, enough of it is not transported throughout the tree to affect it. Bleach only affects the most vulnerable areas it has been applied to like like leaves or exposed cambium layer. This limits Bleacher’s effectiveness as a tree killer.

Bleach works by sucking out the moisture from an area it has been sprayed on. If you apply bleach on the leaves of a tree, the leaves will become dehydrated, turn brown, and eventually fall off.

Can You Kill A Tree with Bleach?

Bleach is not really effective at killing trees. It only affects the area it has been applied to, as opposed to some of the herbicides which get transported throughout the tree and directly affect the roots. 

If you are using Bleach on smaller plants or very young trees, bleach can harm them beyond repair and kill them. If you are using bleach on plants that require a lot of care or on plants that are not native to a particular climate, then it can be effective. Even in these cases, you have to apply bleach multiple times to increase its efficiency.

If you are using bleach on any native species of woody plants that are hard to kill, there is a high probability that they do not show any sign of dying. Even if you effectively damage one part of the plant, the roots will start growing new shoots from other parts of the plant.

How Much Bleach Will Kill A Tree?

Bleach is not a recommended chemical to control tree growth, but if used in big enough quantities, beyond the amount we would consider normal, it would be effective on any tree I believe.

That approach would create another set of problems like contaminating the surrounding area and spending a lot of cash on Bleach. In short, it would be cheaper and faster to just buy a proper herbicide.

But how much bleach would you need to kill a tree or a tree stump?

This depends on a lot of factors, the first being the size of the plant. The optimal amount is should entirely cover the foliage of the plant or tree a couple of times over plus then some more. This way you can spray the foliage multiple times to increase the chances of success.

On the other hand, if you are just applying it on a stump, then the required amount would cover the entire stump 3-4 times over. With most small plants and trees, one or two 14oz bottles will be more than enough for a stump.

Concentrated bleach

There are two types of bleach you can use, the first one being a regular diluted bleach which we talked about in the previous section. You can use this straight out of the bottle and there is no need to further dilute it. The advantage of this is that it won’t affect the soil and the surrounding area as much, but the disadvantage is obviously that it won’t be as effective.

The other variety is a more concentrated version of chlorine bleach which is used for industrial uses. For example, this Clorox concentrated bleach .

It is recommended to dilute this in a 50-50 ratio with water (but I have not tested it). This Bleach is much more effective and can cause a lot of damage to even medium-sized trees. The disadvantage of course is that this will damage the soil and surrounding area a lot more and it can even cause skin irritation, breathing difficulties, and other health issues if you are not careful.

Will Bleach Kill A Tree Stump?

Bleach does not invade a tree’s system which means that it won’t be able to reach and kill its root system.

Therefore, if you use it on a tree stump, it slightly affects the area, but it won’t stop the roots from sprouting new shoots from other parts of the tree. You should think of bleach as a drying agent – while it will effectively pull out the moisture from the area it won’t attack trees’ biological system.

How to Use Bleach for Killing Trees?

If you have a concentrated solution of Chlorine bleach, mix it with water in equal proportions. You will also need a backpack sprayer or a handheld sprayer if you are dealing with small plants. This Field King Sprayer from Amazon is a good choice.

If possible, cut the plant down to its stump and treat the stump with the solution while also spraying the roots if possible.

If you are dealing with a bigger tree, then after you cut the tree to its stump, make some gashes along the circumference of the stump and spray the solution to cover the entire stump along with the gashes. This method is also known as the Cut Surface Treatment.

If you do not want to cut the tree down, spray the leafage and the trunk of the plant with the solution. If the roots of the plant are accessible, spray the solution on the roots as well. As an extra step, using an ax, make gashes along the entire circumference of the tree and apply bleach into the gashes.

If you want to take it even a step further, you can remove a 4-8 inches wide strip of bark around the entire circumference of the tree. This alone should kill the tree in the long haul, but using bleach will slightly speed up the process.

How to Save A Tree Which Has Been Exposed to Bleach?

If a tree got exposed to bleach by accident, simply hose down the tree or plant to dilute the chemical. Most of it will just end up running off. Simply cleaning the foliage or the exposed area with water will get the job done.

What Can You Use Other Than Bleach to Effectively Kill A Tree?

There are a ton of herbicides and chemicals that are way more effective in killing trees, plants, and stumps. For example, Relegate, Trycloper, and Tordon are good choices.

For stump killing, Tordon RTU would be the best tree-killing chemical to use followed up by concentrated Roundup, which a lot of people use.

You can read my other article about killing trees without cutting them down here .

Bleach can be used if you have to get rid of small plants, but it is not an ideal choice for plant control. Bleach is not a systemic chemical which means it does disturb the nutrient flow within the tree, thus it will not affect the growth of trees.

Bleach can damage some areas of woody plants but there is a high chance that a tree will survive regular bleach treatment.

Recommended reading:

• What is Basal Bark Treatment
• How to Kill a Tree Stump With Bleach

Hi! I am the guy behind Theyardable.com. I grew up on a homestead and I am here to share the knowledge I have and things I learn while living in the countryside.

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How To Kill A Tree (5 Ways To Do It!)

Trees are the highlights of many yards. They’re big, beautiful, and offer a yard feature that you can plan your landscaping around. However, trees aren’t always wanted.

There may be times when you want to kill one of the trees in your yard for a variety of reasons. When this happens, there are a few different paths you can follow to get the job done. Your best option will depend on the size of your tree along with its other unique characteristics.

The easiest way to kill a small tree is to spray it with a commercial herbicide like Roundup. Larger trees will need to be cut down first to keep the surrounding area safe. After you cut a large tree down, simply treat the stump with a tree-killing chemical to make sure it doesn’t grow back.

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When Do You Need to Kill a Tree?

Homeowners may decide they need to kill one of their trees for a number of reasons. For example, you might make this decision if a tree has grown so large that it’s beginning to interfere with the other parts of your backyard landscape.

Additionally, trees that are dying pose health and safety hazards to your family, your home, and your neighbors. If you know that one of your trees is in the process of dying, it’s a good idea to be proactive about the issue rather than allowing it to cause damage down the line.

These are just a few examples of times when you may decide that killing a tree is the best way to resolve the issues that you’ve been having with it. There are many other scenarios not listed here that may cause you to feel the same way.

Regardless, you’ll find that there are many different ways that you can kill a tree. However, some are easier than others. Continue reading to find the best methods for killing trees.

Can You Kill a Tree Without Cutting it Down?

One of the first questions that most homeowners have about killing a tree is whether or not they need to cut it down. Ultimately, the answer to this question depends on how large the tree in question is.

If it’s a very large tree, then you’ll want to call an arborist to come out and look at it. They’ll be able to tell you whether you can kill the tree without causing it to eventually come crashing down on a neighborhood home or another delicate part of your yard.

Smaller trees can absolutely be killed without having to cut them down. There are many different ways to do this, many of which will be covered in the following sections.

Kill a Tree by Drilling Holes and Applying Tree Killer

This is one of the easiest ways to kill a large tree without having to resort to cutting it down. There are several different ways you can go about doing this.

We recommend drilling holes in the roots of the tree, as this will allow you to impact the entire tree without having to drill hundreds of tiny holes. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to achieve this.

• Start 2-3 inches from the trunk of the tree . From there, you’re going to drill down through the dirt and into the tree’s roots. You should be able to see where the major roots of the tree are located visually.
• Apply tree killer directly to the roots . Not all commercially available herbicides will get the job done, so make sure that you’re careful about which one you purchase. Tordon is one brand that should be able to get just about any job done.
• If attempting to avoid detection, cover the ground up with mulch . Once this is done, the outside world will have no idea that the tree is slowly dying. However, within a few weeks, the tree should already be completely dead.

How to Kill a Tree with Salt

Salt is an alternative that can be used to kill a tree without a commercial herbicide like Tordon on RoundUp. This strategy allows you to accomplish your task without having to shell out for an expensive tree killer. It could be the best option for budget-conscious tree killers.

The process for this is very similar to the one you’d follow if you were killing a tree with an herbicide. Here’s a guide you can follow to get the job done.

• Drill holes into the roots of the tree . The exact number of holes that you need will vary based on the size of the tree. That being said, four to six holes spread evenly across the roots should do the trick.
• Prepare a salt solution . This is done by mixing in two parts of salt for every one part of water. Add as much of these ingredients as you need, then mix the solution until the salt dissolves entirely.
• Pour the salt solution into the drilled holes . This is a process that you’re going to have to repeat regularly for a few weeks. Once the tree’s foliage begins taking on a brown color, you’ll know that the process is working properly.
• If it’s a large tree, cut it down . Large trees that are killed this way still need to be cut down. However, that process will be much easier after you’ve completed this process.

Kill a Tree by Removing Bark (Girdling)

Girdling is a tree-killing process with roots that trace as far back as the Iroquois Indians. They would kill unwanted trees by cutting a ring of bark away from the tree all the way around. Eventually, that tree would die and the Iroquois could use its wood to build.

This is an ancient tree-killing method that’s just as effective today as it was back then. It’s also a fairly easy way to kill your unwanted trees.

All that you need to do is cut a complete ring around a portion of the tree’s bark. Most people who follow this strategy use a chainsaw to do it. Once you’ve done this, the portion of the tree that lies above the girdle line will stop growing completely.

It is important to note that only the parts of the tree that are above the girdle line will stop growing. Trees can be fairly resilient and you may find that the lower part of the tree continues thriving even after you girdle an upper portion.

Still, this is a good strategy for people who don’t want to cut down their trees right away. Girdling halts the growth process and buys you time. You’ll be able to go back to cut the trees that you’ve used this treatment on down whenever you want.

Kill a Tree with Copper Nails

Copper nails are another tool that you can use to kill a tree without having to cut it down. This is another fairly easy way to get the job done. All that you need to make this work is a hammer and a box of copper nails.

Essentially, the process boils down to simply hammering a bunch of copper nails into a live tree. To get the best results from this strategy, you’ll want to place those nails near the trunk of the tree.

This is also a tree-killing method that can be hidden from suspicious onlookers. One way to do that is to lay a layer of mulch near the base of the tree where you’ve hammered the copper nails. Buy mulch that matches the color of the nails you’ve hammered and it will be very difficult for anyone to see what you’ve done.

That being said, there is one major downside to using this strategy. If you try to kill a tree with copper nails alone, you shouldn’t expect the tree to die for at least a year. You might have to wait even longer to see the fruits of your labor.

That makes this tree-killing method one that’s best used in situations where you don’t need the tree to die as quickly as possible. If your needs are more pressing than that, continue on to the next section.

How to Kill a Tree Fast

You can kill unwanted trees in many different ways. However, if you want to complete the process as quickly as possible, you’re going to want to utilize one of the following methods.

Spray the Tree

The easiest way to kill a tree quickly is to spray it with a commercial herbicide. RoundUp and Killzall are two of the most commonly used treatments for this strategy.

All that you need to do is mix the herbicide into a gallon sprayer and begin spraying the unwanted tree. To get the best results, you’ll want to place most of your focus on the tree’s leaves.

That being said, this strategy won’t completely kill trees that are above four feet or so in height. For these, you’re going to need to cut the tree down to the stump after you’ve sprayed it.

Cut and Remove the Tree

There’s really no method that kills a tree faster than cutting and removing it. Tree species like oak , palm, maple, and pine don’t need any chemical agents. They’ll die just from cutting them down.

However, other tree species will continue growing back if they aren’t treated with chemical agents. Check out this link for a complete list of the common types of trees that need to be treated with chemicals and those that don’t.

Call for Professional Assistance

It can be difficult to identify both the most effective and fastest method for killing an unwanted tree. Even when you do find the right method, you might be surprised at how long and physically exerting the process turns out to be.

You may be able to speed the tree-killing process up tremendously by simply calling an arborist . They can come out to take a look at your trees and make specific recommendations about the fastest way to solve your problem. This enables you to get rid of a tree quickly without having to devote multiple weekends to the project.

Can You Kill a Tree with Bleach?

Some homeowners ask if they can use bleach to kill an unwanted tree since it’s an item that they have at home anyways. You can absolutely take care of your tree problem with bleach provided that you follow the correct method.

Killing a tree with bleach is a process that’s similar to the one you would follow if trying to kill a tree with a commercial herbicide. This means that you need to start the process by drilling into the roots of the tree.

Doing this will expose the tree’s roots to the bleach that you’re getting ready to apply. This will allow the bleach to work much more efficiently and effectively than it would be able to do otherwise.

Once you’ve drilled holes into the roots of your tree, simply apply the bleach to those holes and wait. It may take you multiple applications and a bit of time. However, eventually, you’ll find that bleach applications will kill the tree that you’re trying to get rid of.

What are the Best Tree-Killing Chemicals?

Using chemicals to kill a tree is one of the most popular methods used by DIYers. If this is what you plan on doing, then it’s worth taking some time to consider which chemical would be the best herbicide for your tree.

There are many different kinds of chemicals that can handle this task. Essentially, you just need to make sure that they have a concentration of glyphosate, the active ingredient, that is 41% or higher. This will ensure that the chemical is strong enough to take down even large trees.

Many commercial brands meet this specification. This is a list that includes:

• Ferti-Lome Brush Stump Killer

Can Antifreeze Kill Trees?

You may have heard about how effective antifreeze is in killing vegetation. If so, you might be thinking about using it on a tree that you’d like to get rid of. However, this generally isn’t a good idea.

Antifreeze can absolutely kill a tree that you apply it to. However, the risk of using it comes from how it could affect the rest of your yard.

Antifreeze is difficult to contain in a single place once it’s been applied to your soil. Using an application of it to kill a tree could quickly cause issues elsewhere in your yard. Antifreeze could kill your grass, your flowers, and make replanting them impossible.

For these reasons, stick to one of the chemicals listed above to kill your unwanted trees. Doing so will ensure that you don’t risk the parts of your yard that you actually want to keep.

Related Questions

Can vinegar kill a tree.

Vinegar is another substance that you might consider when trying to kill a tree. It isn’t powerful enough to kill the tree directly. However, what it can do is kill the tree’s leaves, which will slowly kill the rest of the tree over time. That means vinegar can kill your tree, but it will do so very slowly.

Does rubbing alcohol kill trees?

Yes, rubbing alcohol is a substance that can kill trees when applied in the right quantities. To do so, create a mixture that’s a blend of water and rubbing alcohol. That being said, in order to be effective, the mixture will need to have a high concentration of rubbing alcohol.If the concentration is at 5% or under, then the tree’s growth will be stunted but it will not die. In order to kill the tree, you’re going to have to make the mixture at a concentration of 25% or higher.

Kellan is a content writer who specializes in everything DIY. When he's not behind the keyboard, he enjoys spending time with his pets, playing music, and geeking out about basketball. He hopes to make your home improvement projects a little bit easier to accomplish.

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Does home work kill trees

yes technically it does.

But isn't it worth doing homework to review what you learned in class and to have great careers to figure out a way to save the trees or discover another form of "paper"

do you want to not do your homework, get bad grades, get into a bad college, become a hobo, and live a life of dumpster diving AND waste more trees building your cardboard box house that you'll probably live in??

your choice.just because u dont do home work dont all ways mean that u get bad grades and. YES it does kill trees more paper 4 homework less trees

Add your answer:

Does homework kill trees?

Yes, in indirect way it kills trees. Every usage of paper kill trees, but it is also good for all of us to learn. Homework is good and trees can be planted again. Everyone should plant at least one tree.

How does homework kill trees?

Well if your homework is on pieces of paper then yes it does, as paper is made from trees, but if it is not then it doesnt kill trees. There are many different factors that can come into play if a tree dies, some of them can be the weather, not enough sunlight or water, pollution etc

Will cholrinated pool water kill evergreen bushes and trees?

Shouldn't kill since percentage wise is low, but may burn the leaves.

Where can a buy fruit trees on Long island?

Local home centers or nurseries will have trees suitable for you area, but there are lots of places online to get good quality trees.

Can strangler vines kill trees?

Yes, stranger vines can kill trees. They girdle bushes, herbs, grasses, shrubs and trees from bottom to top. The girdling or strangling activity by runners, suckers or tendrils massively generated by prolific seeding kills non-woody and woody plants by monopolizing all light and moisture inputs from air, land and water bodies.

Dose home work kill trees?

It definitely kills trees, because if you think about it, homework comes from paper, and where does that come from? Trees!

Why its not good to cut down trees?

you kill a lot of things and you kill the trees

Is there a liquid or grandule poison you can use around trees to kill the mistletoe in the trees?

i want to help with this 1.you can kill trees by oil

What other iteams at home that will kill head lice?

Mayo will work

What are the advantages of the plastic bags?

They are reusable and good to carry things in and they don't have to kill trees

Why are wildfires good?

NEGATIVE EFFECTSland gets destroyedconsumes vegetationPOSITIVE EFFECTSi don't really think there's some positive effects to a wildfire

Do cottonwood trees kill other plants?

Cottonwood trees do not kill other plants. However, they can develop certain diseases that spread to other plants and trees so they can be a carrier as all trees and plants can be.

How do you remove trees from a home on yoville?

you cannot remove trees from your home.

How do you kill an apple tree?

can car exhaust kill apple trees

Will Limestone kill plants?

can limestone rocks kill roses or palm trees

Will earwigs kill elder trees?

Does acid rain have no effect on trees.

Acid rain can damage the leaves on trees and can kill them.

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'How can I kill a tree without cutting it down?' – an expert arborist offers their advice

If you're unhappy with a neighboring tree, you may be wondering if there's a way to kill it without chopping it. But it's not worth the risk – as this expert explains

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Q: My neighbor's tree has grown over the fence and is hanging over our backyard. It's blocking sunlight, the leaves are annoying to clean up, and I'm concerned that one of the branches might break in a storm, causing damage to the patio area beneath. Is there a way that I can kill it, without chopping it down?

A: A quick internet search can throw up all sorts of ideas for killing a neighboring tree on the sly. You're probably thinking that if it dies, your neighbor will be forced to cut it down. Problem solved, right? Wrong! Turns out that doing so can actually create an even bigger problem for everyone.

Ned is a qualified arborist and the founder of The Bristol Tree Medic . Starting his career in one of the UK’s leading tree nurseries in 2010, he went on to spend over a decade as a tree climber across the UK, Europe, New Zealand and Australia. For him, arboriculture has always been more of a fascination than a job, and an industry that never ceases to inspire.

Ned Cromack strongly advises against anyone trying to discreetly kill their neighbor's tree. 'Fundamentally, a tree is someone else's property and has amenity value. if you destroy that tree, you're effectively taking a sledgehammer and putting a hole in their building – it's vandalism,' he says. In most regions, the law reflects this, meaning you could be facing a large fine – we're talking thousands of dollars – often even more than the value of the tree itself.

'What's more, if you kill your neighbor's tree, within one or two years the tree will become infinitely more dangerous,' Ned continues. 'The branches will become much more brittle and will snap off easier in high winds, and the tree itself is more likely to uproot and fall anywhere – putting not just yourself but everyone else in danger.' And, even then, your neighbor may not agree to cut it down.

This is also why you shouldn't try and kill the tree roots on your side of the property line – again, it can cause the tree itself to die and creates a bigger safety hazard.

Overhanging branches may be a safety concern

So, you can't kill it – but what can you do?

In most areas, it's perfectly legal to cut back branches from a neighboring tree that has encroached on your yard. But before you grab the loppers, there are a few things to consider. First, you need to be careful to only cut to the property line – no further. And if you make cuts that result in the death of the tree, those fines mentioned above could be looming.

'You can't climb the tree,' adds Ned, 'which makes it very difficult. And you can't simply throw the cut material back over the fence – you need to ask them if they want it back.'

It really is best to talk to your neighbor and make them aware of the issue before you make plans to trim their tree. 'You'd be amazed how many people don't,' Ned says. But, he suggests coming to them with a solution, rather than just a problem. Consulting a licensed arborist can help with this.

The arborist will come and look at the tree and, if safety is your primary concern, they can quantify the risks. This will either put your mind at ease, or can strengthen your case when you talk to your neighbor. An arborist can also lay out the possible options for alleviating the problem without causing damage to the tree. 

Just don't expect your neighbor to pay for the work for you if they're happy with the tree as it is, especially if it isn't posing any danger. Hopefully, with communication, you can reach a compromise and agree to split the costs.

If the tree trunk is in your neighbor's garden, it's their property

These options could include the following, Ned explains:

• Crown raising: This is where a few of the lowest limbs are removed. The perceived change of all of the canopy raising up above head height is huge, Ned says, and most people are happy with the result as it gives you a much better sense of space.
• Size reduction: 'You can reduce some trees – but any good arborist won't take off too much at one time – never more than pruning a third of the length of each branch,' Ned says. They will do it as a staged process to lessen the damage to the tree. You can't stop a tree from growing, though, Ned adds, so bear in mind that this isn't a one-off job. The smaller size will need to be maintained continually and forever, which can be costly, especially if it's a fast-growing tree that you're dealing with.
• Thinning the canopy: 'Thinning is a tree-care management technique where you take back select branches from the canopy to allow more light to penetrate through,' Ned explains. 'It can do a lot, but again, it's a maintenance thing – especially as it can lead to more vigorous regrowth.'

A trained arborist should be hired to prevent damage to the tree

A final option? Try to learn to love the tree. After all, they are beautiful things, great for wildlife gardens , and make any neighborhood a more desirable place to live.

If it's creating a shady area, there are lots of beautiful shade plants available, as well as no-grass backyard ideas that are easier to maintain with less sunlight. The cooler effect it has on your yard in the summer can be a good thing, and if it's deciduous, the leaves will drop in winter allowing more sunlight through to warm your plot. If it's leaf litter that's frustrating you, maybe you could make the best of it by collecting up the leaves to make leaf mold .

It's worth saying that if you move house in the future, it's always a good idea to clock neighboring trees with the assumption that they're not going to go anywhere. That way, you can factor in any potential frustrations before deciding to move in.

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The garden was always a big part of Holly's life growing up, as was the surrounding New Forest where she lived. Her appreciation for the great outdoors has only grown since then; over the years, she's been an allotment keeper, a professional gardener, and a botanical illustrator. Having worked for Gardeningetc.com for two years, Holly now regularly writes about plants and outdoor living for Homes & Gardens.

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Cicada-mania FAQ: Answering your periodical cicada questions for the 2024 dual emergence

Cicada-mania has been building to almost mythical levels in 2024. Nearly every story on my news feed references this historic event about to occur in Illinois. Despite the media frenzy, there are still lots of questions about the upcoming cicada emergence. So, I might as well hop on this cicada train with some common questions about periodical cicadas.

Before you read any further, my colleague, Ken Johnson, covered this topic in detail in a recent article. Essentially, everything you’re about to read is taken from Ken’s article. I’m only pulling on a few bits of information based on the questions we have been getting at the Extension office. If you want to read Ken’s excellent article, find it at go.Illinois.edu/cicada .

Two broods are emerging at the same time. Does that mean double the cicadas?

Not really. Don’t get me wrong, there will still be a lot of cicadas. An estimated 1.5 million per acre in ideal habitat locations. However, despite the dual emergence, the broods are unlikely to overlap. The area where they are expected to overlap is Sangamon County. Congratulations Springfield! Other counties where both broods are present are Logan, Macon, and Livingston. What is impressive about this event is the sheer geography that will be covered by these two broods.

1.5 million cicadas per acre! Will we be under a blanket of bugs this spring?

Brood XIII cicadas have been underground for 17 years. Brood XIX has been underground for 13 years. The entire time these cicada larvae have been underground they are feeding on tree roots. If that area didn’t have trees at the time when the cicadas were out the last time laying eggs 17 and 13 years ago, you may have far fewer cicadas than other locations. This may be common in neighborhoods that have been clear-cut for development or large fields and pastures with few to no trees.

The density of cicadas will vary. It is likely to find higher-density pockets in forested areas or neighborhoods with a developed tree canopy. But even in these areas, the density will fluctuate.

When will the cicadas emerge?

We expect to see the first cicadas show up around mid-May. Once the soil warms in the spring to 64°F at 8 inches deep they will surface, shed their exoskeleton into their adult form, and start singing. Because their appearance is temperature-dependent this can change slightly based on the weather, but eight inches down is fairly insulated from the hot to cold swings we often encounter in spring. Regardless, of exact timing you will know they are out when you hear them singing. 

Cicadas “sing?” How loud are we talking?

Male cicadas will start singing a few days after they begin to emerge to attract females. In the pockets of dense cicadas it will get very loud. Up to 90 decibels loud. That would be like standing next to a gas-powered lawn mower. People walking through the woods wouldn’t be able to hear each other talking, even if they were side-by-side.

Are periodical cicadas going to kill my trees? What can I do to stop them?

This is perhaps the most common question I have received. Female cicadas have a saw-like ovipositor that cuts slits in small tree branches to lay her eggs. The female is attracted to branches less than an inch in diameter for egg-laying. Our larger trees will be fine. They may lose their branch tips, but it won’t be enough to hurt the tree. The trees at risk are our smaller newly planted trees where most of the branches (and maybe even the trunk) is conducive to egg laying. And when you get 1 million cicadas making tiny cuts on your baby tree, that can add up to major damage and even death to the plant.

It is not recommended to spray your trees with any insecticide. Instead, the best defense for a homeowner is to use physical exclusion. Wrap your young trees in insect netting with a mesh size of a ¼-inch or less, and tie the netting to the base of the trunk to prevent the cicadas from crawling up the trunk and laying their eggs. Your tree will look like a giant ice cream cone. It may be helpful to build a frame around the plants, cicadas may still be able to lay eggs on branches that are touching the netting.

Can you eat cicadas?

As Ken would say, "You can eat anything." Native Americans did utilize cicadas as part of their diet at times. They are not toxic, however, if you have a shellfish allergy it is recommended to not eat cicadas (or most insects for that matter). Also, avoid collecting cicadas in areas that have experienced frequent pesticide use. Because periodical cicadas have a long life span they may bio-accumulate chemicals in their bodies. Try to collect from forested areas buffered from development or ag use. And yes, there are cicada recipes and entire cookbooks on how to prepare these crunchy munchy bugs. As for flavor, I'll leave that up to you to determine.

What should I do about all these cicadas?

Observe them. Recognize you live on a pretty neat planet. And enjoy the show.

Want more cicada information?

The Good Growing Podcast will be posting more cicada content in April and May. You can find us on any major podcast app.

Good Growing Tip of the Week: To wrap your trees you can use insect netting, row cover fabric, or tulle fabric. Tulle is commonly found at craft stores but can easily tear allowing cicadas to access your tree. Insect netting and row cover are more durable but often need to be ordered online.

Good Growing

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