Killing an Evergreen: Girdling vs. Herbicide, and the Dead Tree Problem

**Conifers (pines, spruces, firs):** Girdle trunk—cut 2-in. wide bark ring **through cambium into sapwood** all around. Cuts off water/mineral flow. **No herbicide needed.**

**Broadleaf evergreens (hollies, magnolias, etc.):** Girdle **+** apply **undiluted Roundup (concentrate)** to fresh cut cambium.

The Catch: You Still Have a Dead Tree

• **Dead trees fall.** Limbs drop in 1–3 years; trunk fails in 5–10.
• **If it can fall on ANYTHING (structure, utility, person), you MUST pay for removal.**
• **Only safe to leave standing** in remote woods, far from targets.

Better Option

**Hire removal now.** Cost of removal < cost of liability + future emergency removal. Stump grind if replanting.