How to Remove a Tree From a Garden

Trees are a staple in landscapes, but there is often the need to remove unwanted trees from gardens. Though the common method is cutting off the tree to leave a stump, this often proves unreliable as the stumps tend to resprout. Burning is sometimes used in open areas but this is a risky operation and not safe in urban settings. The best way to remove a tree is to use a recommended herbicide as this kills the tree all the way to the roots, suggests the University of Florida Extension.

Axe
Glyphosate

Instructions

- 1
  Select a herbicide with the active ingredient glyphosate for effectively removing a tree permanently. Undiluted, water-soluble formulas have greater efficacy as compared to the esters, according to Washington State University Extension.
- 2
  Cut the tree down to a stump and make stump surface level to ensure even application and prevent herbicide from flowing off. Clear the surface of all sawdust.
- 3
  Apply the herbicide to entire stump area on diameter less than 3 inches. On larger trees where diameter exceeds 3 inches, treat only the 2 to 3 inches right next to the bark as the heartwood of larger trees is already dead.
- 4
  Treat freshly cut stump immediately after cutting for best effect. If you were not able to treat stump right away, make a new cut to expose fresh tree tissues prior to application. The best time to use glyphosate is during August and September.
- 5
  Remove the dead stump by grinding to a depth of about a foot below the soil line. You can also remove by wrapping stump with chain, hooking to a truck or tractor and pulling out entirely with roots. Grinding is the preferred method of stump removal in urban areas, according to the University of Minnesota Extension.

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