How to Kill a Newly Planted Tree

While many people go to great lengths to plant and cultivate trees, there are various reasons why you might want to kill a newly planted tree. Maybe the tree was poorly placed, or it's too close to other plants or structures, or it's a species that's invasive in your area. Whatever the reason, if you need to get rid of a newly planted tree, there are a few ways to do it effectively.

1. Uprooting the Tree

If the tree is still small and hasn't fully taken root, you might be able to simply pull it out of the ground yourself. To do this, start by loosening the soil around the base of the tree with a shovel or garden fork. Then, grasp the tree trunk near its base and rock it back and forth gently, trying to loosen the roots. If the tree comes out easily, simply dispose of it and fill the hole with soil.

2. Cutting the Tree

If the tree is too large to uproot, you might need to cut it down instead. First, use a sharp saw or pruning shears to cut off any branches that are thicker than a pencil. This will make it easier to cut the trunk later on. Next, use a saw to cut the trunk as close to the ground as possible. If the tree is too thick to cut by hand, you might need to rent or borrow a chainsaw for the job.

3. Using Chemicals

If you're dealing with a particularly stubborn or large tree, you might need to use chemicals to kill it. There are several options, including glyphosate (the active ingredient in Roundup), triclopyr, and picloram. Be sure to read the label carefully and follow all instructions when using these products. In general, you'll need to spray the chemical directly onto the tree's leaves or bark, or apply it to the cut surface of the trunk.

4. Smothering the Tree

Another option for killing a newly planted tree is to smother it. To do this, start by cutting the tree down as close to the ground as possible. Then, cover the stump and surrounding area with a thick layer of mulch or other organic material, such as newspapers or cardboard. This will cut off the tree's access to sunlight and air, effectively smothering it over time.

5. Cutting Off the Top

If you don't want to completely kill the tree, but simply want to stunt its growth or reshape it, you can try cutting off the top. To do this, use pruning shears or a saw to remove the tree's leader (the main vertical stem) and any other branches that you want to remove. This will encourage the tree to branch out and grow in a more bushy shape.

Conclusion

While killing a newly planted tree might seem cruel or wasteful, sometimes it's necessary for the health and vitality of your garden or landscape. Whatever method you choose, be sure to do it safely and responsibly, and dispose of the tree properly.