How to Get Rid of Small Trees: A Simple Guide

Small trees often begin their lives as charming additions to a landscape, providing shade and aesthetic appeal. However, what starts as a picturesque sapling can evolve into a significant maintenance challenge, competing with desirable plants for resources and obstructing views. Whether these are volunteer seedlings sprouting in your lawn or an ill-suited species planted too close to structures, understanding how to get rid of small trees is essential for effective property management.

Assessing the Need for Removal

Before initiating any removal process, a careful assessment is necessary to determine if it is the best course of action. Consider the tree's location relative to structures, power lines, and underground utilities. A tree that is leaning precariously over a roof or growing through a fence likely requires complete removal. In contrast, a tree blocking a view but causing no structural damage might be better managed through careful pruning.

Identifying Problem Species

Some species are inherently more problematic than others due to their invasive nature or brittle wood. Trees like silver maple, boxelder, and certain poplars are notorious for having weak branches that break easily, posing a risk to property. Others, such as Bradford pear, are highly invasive and spread aggressively through seed dispersal. Identifying the species helps you understand the long-term behavior and decide if eradication is warranted.

Mechanical Removal Techniques

For small trees under two inches in diameter, mechanical removal is often the most straightforward and immediate solution. This method involves physically extracting the tree and its root system from the ground. It is a preferred option for organic gardeners or those looking to avoid chemical applications, as it addresses the problem without introducing foreign substances to the soil.

Digging Out Saplings

• Water the area thoroughly 24 hours prior to digging to loosen the soil.
• Use a sharp spade or digging fork to cut through roots in a wide circle around the trunk.
• Gently rock the tree back and forth to loosen it from the ground.
• Pull the tree out, ensuring you remove as much of the root system as possible to prevent regrowth.

Stump Grinding and Extraction

If the tree has already been cut down, the remaining stump can be an eyesore and a tripping hazard. Stump grinding involves using a specialized machine with a rotating wheel of teeth to reduce the stump and major roots into wood chips. This process brings the wood level with the surrounding soil, allowing for immediate replanting of grass or other vegetation without the obstruction of a lingering stump.

Chemical Control Methods

When the root system is extensive or the tree has been cut down leaving a stubborn stump, chemical intervention becomes necessary. Glyphosate or triclopyr-based herbicides are highly effective at killing tree tissue and preventing the energy stored in the roots from producing new shoots. This method is ideal for tackling trees that are difficult to dig out due to their location or surrounding hardscape.

Applying Herbicides Correctly

Successful chemical removal depends on the proper application technique. Cutting the tree down and immediately applying a concentrated herbicide to the fresh stump is the most effective method. The leaves of living, regrown shoots can also be treated, but this requires careful timing to ensure the herbicide travels down to the roots. Always follow label instructions precisely to protect surrounding vegetation and adhere to local regulations.

Preventing Regrowth and Replanting

Even after the visible tree is gone, the battle may not be over. Viable roots left in the ground can send up suckers, drawing energy away from your lawn and garden. To ensure the tree does not return, you must treat these sprouts as they appear by cutting them and applying herbicide. Once the area is clear, you can proceed with replanting grass or installing new landscape features without fear of interference.

When to Call a Professional

Certain situations demand the expertise of a certified arborist or tree removal specialist. If the small tree is located in a hazardous area, such as near power lines or close to a structure where falling could cause damage, professional assistance is non-negotiable. Experts have the safety gear, climbing equipment, and technical knowledge to handle the job efficiently without risking personal injury or property damage.