How to Kill Sassafras

Sassafras trees can be identified by the citrus-like smell that emanates from their bark and leaves. While some gardeners enjoy this tree for its medicinal qualities, others consider sassafras a weed. In addition, sassafras trees are highly susceptible to fire damage, winter injury and fungal diseases. By removing this weedy tree, a landscape and its plants can be protected against any harmful pathogens that may have taken up residence in the unwanted sassafras tree.

Hatchet
Plastic
Herbicide
Hand-held sprayer
Towel

Instructions

- 1
  Cut a groove or notch on the sassafras tree, using a hatchet. The cut should penetrate 1/2 inch on small sassafras trees and up to 2 inches on mature sassafras trees. Small sassafras trees need narrow grooves 1 to 2 square inches, whereas larger sassafras trees must have grooves 6 to 8 square inches. Cutting grooves into the sassafras disrupts its ability to transport nutrients and water.
- 2
  Continue making grooves or notches around the tree. Cuts should be placed around the entire tree trunk.
- 3
  Place a piece of plastic underneath the sassafras to protect grass or landscape plants.
- 4
  Apply a herbicide to the cuts that contains 2,4-D + 2,4-DP, using a hand-held sprayer. Soak the cuts with the herbicide, but wipe off excess herbicide running down the tree to protect grass or landscape plants.
- 5
  Reapply the herbicide in five days if the tree isn't exhibiting signs of dying, such as stunted growth, leaf discoloration or discolored bark.

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