Have you noticed several tree seedlings sprouting up throughout your yard? Maybe you recently chopped down an old tree, only to discover later that its existing roots are causing seedlings to sprout.
Regardless, dealing with tree sprouts can be compared to playing a game of whack-a-mole. You’ll cut down one, but soon after two or even three take its place. So, how can deal with intrusive tree sprouts in your yard?
Identify Parent Tree
The first step towards regaining control of your yard is to identify the parent tree of the sprout. In other words, is there an existing tree nearby that’s causing the saplings to sprout up in your yard?
If so, you’ll need to take care of the existing tree; otherwise, you’ll have an uphill battle when trying to clear your yard of new sprouts.
Pull ‘Em Out
There are several solutions to dealing with unwanted tree sprouts in your yard or landscape, one of which is to pull them up by their roots. Some homeowners make the mistake of cutting or chopping them at the base. In doing so, however, the roots remain intact, allowing the tree to continue growing.
If you’re going to remove them manually, dig a small circle that’s a few inches deep and pull the entire root structure out of the ground. Once the roots have been removed, the tree should no longer sprout.
Of course, this really only works for small and young trees, as pulling up the roots of a large tree is next to impossible.
Herbicide
Another solution is to use an herbicide like glyphosate (sold at most plant nurseries). Simply cut the sprouted tree and brush a generous amount of the herbicide onto the freshly cut base.
This should make easy work of tree sprouts, killing them so they are unable to grow. Be warned, though, the use of this or any other type of chemical-based herbicide may harm nearby trees, so use caution when applying it.
After applying herbicide to the sprout(s), keep a close eye on your yard in the days and weeks to follow. The sprouts should begin to turn brown and brittle, indicating they are dying.
If they are not turning this color, apply additional herbicide to the base. With a little bit of work, this should cause them to die, giving you back control of your yard.
The Woodsman Company offers tree planting, tree pruning and shrub trimming, tree removal and stump grinding as well as a tree wellness program.
If we can help with any of your tree care needs give us a call at 512-846-2535 or 512-940-0799 or
What if the sprouts are attached to tree root ? We did cut a branch off the tree as it was pulling tree sideways.
I have tree sprouts coming up all over in my backyard. I had a tree removed and I believe it left seedings all over my backyard grass. What can I use to kill them without destroying my centipede. There are too many to pluck out. They are actually seedlings sprouting everywhere.