Killing a Nuisance Tree Near Pool: Cut It Down, Don't Just Poison It

**Do not just kill it and leave it standing.** A dead tree will shed limbs, then topple—**into your pool or cover**.

Correct Sequence

1. **Hire a pro** to **remove limbs first**, then fell trunk in sections (controlled).
2. **Immediately treat fresh stump** with **undiluted Roundup (concentrate, not RTU)** on cambium ring.
3. **Grind stump** below grade if replanting; or leave to decay (years).

Why Not Girdle/Herbicide Alone?

• Dead wood becomes brittle, unpredictable.
• Liability if it falls on property/person.
• Stump sprouts may regrow (some species).

**Pay for proper removal.** It’s cheaper than pool repair or injury liability.