What Chemicals Will Kill Tree Roots & Stump?

Recommended Chemicals

• The University of Florida Extension recommends using of triclopyr ester, glyphosate or triclopyr amine for treating tree stumps. When applied to freshly cut stump, the chemical is translocated down to the roots and kills the entire stump, including the roots. The chemicals are sold under different brand names.

Stump Cutting

• When planning to treat a stump with an herbicide, ensure that that the stump surface is as level as possible. This helps keep the chemical from running off. After the tree is cut, clear the surface of sawdust and debris, as they absorb the chemical. In stump treatments, select undiluted, water-soluble herbicide formulations. The former have a higher efficacy as compared to the esters, recommends the Washington State University Extension.

Application Suggestions

• Apply the herbicide with a brush to the stump surface. If the stump's diameter is 3 inches or less, apply herbicide to the entire surface. For stumps with a diameter more than 3 inches, brush the chemical only on the outermost 2 to 3 inches next to the stump. The heartwood of larger trees is already dead and does not require treatment.

Treatment Timing

• The best time for stump treatment is right after cutting fresh cut wood for rapid and efficient translocation down to the roots. If the treatment is delayed, recut the surface and expose fresh wood before the chemical application. A delay in treating the stump often leads to prolific sprouting from the roots and tree collar. The recommended time for treating stumps is anywhere between late spring and early summer.