Killing a Tree with Herbicide: Cut-Stump vs. Frill Methods

Methods

1. Cut-stump (preferred): Cut tree down, immediately apply Roundup (glyphosate) to fresh stump. Kills roots.
2. Frill/girdle (if must kill standing): Cut downward grooves around trunk at ground level, fill with Roundup. Tree dies, then must be cut soon before limbs fall.

Warning

Roundup kills any green plant contacted. Avoid drift.

Key Takeaway

Cut-stump treatment is safer and more effective. Standing dead trees become hazards.