Killing Resprouting Silver Maple and Mulberry Stumps

Why They Regrow

Cut hardwoods (silver maple, mulberry) sprout vigorously from the living root system. The trunk is dead, but roots store energy and produce new shoots.

Effective Control: Herbicide Application

1. Product: Glyphosate (Roundup) or triclopyr (Brush-B-Gon) concentrate.
2. Method: Cut fresh sprouts to 6–12 inches. Immediately paint or spray the cut surfaces with undiluted herbicide. Alternatively, spray foliage of actively growing sprouts (12–18 inches tall) with a 2% glyphosate solution.
3. Timing: Late summer/early fall maximizes translocation to roots.
4. Repeat: Treat regrowth until no new shoots appear (often 2–3 applications).

Safety

Shield desirable plants. Glyphosate kills any green tissue contacted. Follow all label precautions.