Quck answer
To kill a liquid amber tree, you can follow these steps:
1. Cut off all branches and leaves using a pruning saw or chainsaw.
2. Drill several holes into the trunk of the tree and fill them with a concentrated herbicide.
3. Cover the drilled holes with a plastic wrap or tape to prevent the herbicide from evaporating.
4. Repeat the herbicide application every few months to ensure the tree’s complete death.
5. Monitor the tree for any new growth and repeat the process of cutting and herbicide application if necessary.
6. Once the tree is completely dead, you can remove the stump using a stump grinder or by hiring a professional tree removal service.
Remember to follow safety precautions and check local regulations before attempting to kill a tree.
A liquid amber tree is a popular choice for homeowners who want a fast-growing tree that provides shade and a colorful canopy. However, this tree can also become a nuisance due to its hardy root system that makes it difficult to remove and kill once it has established in your yard.
About the Liquid Amber Tree
The liquid amber tree, also known as the American sweetgum tree (​Liquidambar styraciflua​, USDA hardiness zones 5-9), is a beautiful shade tree that displays deep orange and red five-pointed leaves in the fall. This tree can grow up to 100 feet tall and has a shallow root system that can sprout new growth long after the main trunk has been cut down.
However, the heavy limbs of the liquid amber tree can be easily damaged, and it can be difficult to fully remove the tree from your property once it has been cut down.
When to Seek Professional Help
If your liquid amber tree is taller than 30 feet, it may be necessary to seek professional help to remove it. You may also need a permit from your city or county to remove a tree over a certain height.
A professional tree-cutting service can safely remove the tree and its root system, grind down the stump, and ensure that the tree doesn’t return.
Killing Suckers From Liquid Amber Trees
Even after the tree has been removed, suckers may sprout from the remaining root system, and seeds from the spiky seed balls can easily germinate.
- To kill a sucker, place a coffee can over it and spray it with a weed-killing spray that includes glyphosate, such as Roundup. This will keep the herbicide in a concentrated area.
- If the sucker has sprouted up in a vegetable garden or flower bed, use a paintbrush to carefully apply the herbicide directly to the leaves and stem.