Controlling Weeds and Cypress Knees Around a Lakefront Cypress

Managing a Cypress Stand on a Florida Lake

A homeowner with mature cypress trees on a lakefront "beach area" wants to suppress weeds and knows the trees produce many knees (root protrusions). They ask how many knees can be removed without harming the trees.

Weed Control

Spot-spray glyphosate (Roundup) on green weeds. It's safe to get the herbicide on the knees themselves, as long as you don't apply it to freshly cut surfaces. Always follow label directions and purchase from a local garden center.

Cypress Knees

Knees can be cut off at ground level as often as needed without damaging the parent tree. They are simply root extensions and their removal doesn't affect tree health. For easier maintenance between knees, consider a mulch bed or shade-tolerant groundcover instead of turf.

Quick Tips

• Use glyphosate for weed control; avoid contact with desirable plants.
• Cut knees flush with the soil whenever they become a nuisance.
• Mulch or plant groundcover to reduce future weed pressure.

Your cypress trees will continue to thrive with minimal intervention.