How to Effectively Kill Cedar Trees: A Comprehensive Guide

Cedar trees, while sometimes admired for their aesthetic appeal and use in landscaping, can become a nuisance when they overpopulate an area, compete with other desirable plants, or pose a fire hazard. Managing cedar populations is a common challenge for landowners, ranchers, and homeowners alike. This comprehensive guide provides detailed steps and instructions on how to effectively kill cedar trees using various methods, ensuring you can reclaim your land and promote a healthier ecosystem.

**Disclaimer:** *Before undertaking any tree removal project, always check local regulations and permits. Improper use of herbicides can be harmful to the environment and human health. Always follow manufacturer instructions and safety precautions when using any chemical treatment.*

## Understanding Cedar Trees

Before delving into the methods of killing cedar trees, it’s crucial to understand the specific type of cedar you’re dealing with. “Cedar” is a common name applied to several different species of coniferous trees. In many parts of the United States, particularly in the Great Plains and Texas, the term “cedar” often refers to the *Juniperus ashei* (Ashe juniper), also known as the blueberry juniper or post cedar. Other common types include Eastern Red Cedar (*Juniperus virginiana*) and various ornamental cultivars.

The growth habits and resilience of these trees vary slightly, but the general principles of control remain the same. Cedar trees are incredibly hardy and drought-tolerant, making them particularly challenging to eradicate once established. They reproduce readily through seeds dispersed by birds and other wildlife. Their dense growth can outcompete native grasses and other vegetation, leading to a decline in biodiversity and reduced grazing capacity for livestock. Also, dense cedar thickets can increase wildfire risk due to the flammable nature of their foliage and deadwood.

## Methods for Killing Cedar Trees

There are several methods for killing cedar trees, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The best approach depends on the size and density of the cedar population, the terrain, the desired outcome, and available resources. The primary methods include:

1. **Mechanical Removal (Cutting or Pulling)**
2. **Herbicide Application (Foliar Spray, Cut-Stump Treatment, Basal Bark Spray)**
3. **Prescribed Burning**

Let’s examine each method in detail:

### 1. Mechanical Removal (Cutting or Pulling)

Mechanical removal involves physically cutting down or pulling out cedar trees. This method is most effective for small to medium-sized trees and is particularly well-suited for areas where herbicide use is undesirable or restricted.

**A. Cutting Down Cedar Trees**

* **Tools Required:**
* Chainsaw (for trees larger than 4 inches in diameter)
* Hand saw (for smaller trees)
* Axe or hatchet (for clearing brush and small branches)
* Protective gear: safety glasses, gloves, ear protection, chaps or chainsaw pants, and a hard hat.

* **Procedure:**
1. **Prepare the Area:** Clear away any brush or debris around the base of the tree to ensure a safe working environment.
2. **Plan the Fall:** Before cutting, assess the tree’s lean and any potential hazards (power lines, buildings, etc.). Plan the direction in which the tree will fall to avoid damage or injury.
3. **Make the Notch Cut:** On the side of the tree in the direction you want it to fall, make a notch cut. This cut should be a V-shape, with the top cut at a 45-degree angle and the bottom cut horizontal, meeting the top cut to form the V. The notch should be about one-third of the tree’s diameter.
4. **Make the Back Cut:** On the opposite side of the tree from the notch, make a horizontal back cut. This cut should be slightly higher than the bottom of the notch. **Important:** Leave a hinge of wood (approximately 1-2 inches) between the back cut and the notch. This hinge will help control the direction of the fall.
5. **Watch for the Fall:** As the back cut progresses, the tree should begin to lean and eventually fall in the direction of the notch. Step away from the tree as it falls to avoid being struck by falling branches or the trunk.
6. **Limb and Dispose:** Once the tree is down, limb the branches using a chainsaw or axe. Dispose of the tree by chipping, burning (where permitted), or hauling it away.

* **Pros:**
* Environmentally friendly (no chemicals used).
* Immediate results.
* Can be selective, targeting specific trees.

* **Cons:**
* Labor-intensive, especially for large areas.
* Requires specialized equipment (chainsaw).
* Can be hazardous if not performed correctly.
* Does not prevent resprouting from the roots in some cases.

**B. Pulling Out Cedar Trees**

Pulling is most effective for very small cedar trees (seedlings up to a few feet tall) and in areas where the soil is loose. This method aims to remove the entire tree, including the root system, which prevents resprouting.

* **Tools Required:**
* Tree popper or Uprooter tool (for larger seedlings)
* Gloves
* Shovel (for loosening soil, if necessary)

* **Procedure:**
1. **Prepare the Tree:** Clear away any brush or debris around the base of the seedling.
2. **Loosen the Soil:** If the soil is compacted, use a shovel to loosen it around the base of the tree.
3. **Use the Tree Popper:** Position the jaws of the tree popper around the base of the tree, as close to the ground as possible. Apply pressure to the handles to clamp onto the trunk.
4. **Pull the Tree:** Use the leverage of the tool to pull the tree straight up out of the ground, root system intact.
5. **Dispose of the Tree:** Remove the tree from the jaws of the tool and dispose of it.

* **Pros:**
* Effective for removing the entire root system.
* Environmentally friendly.
* Relatively easy for small trees.

* **Cons:**
* Limited to small trees.
* Can be physically demanding.
* Not suitable for rocky or compacted soil.

### 2. Herbicide Application

Herbicide application is a common and effective method for controlling cedar trees, especially in larger areas or where mechanical removal is impractical. Several herbicide application techniques can be used, each with its own advantages and appropriate uses.

**Important Considerations for Herbicide Use:**

* **Herbicide Selection:** Choose an herbicide that is specifically labeled for use on cedar trees (Juniperus species). Common active ingredients include glyphosate, triclopyr, and imazapyr. Always read and follow the manufacturer’s label instructions.
* **Timing:** The best time to apply herbicides is during the active growing season (spring and early summer) when the trees are actively transporting nutrients. Avoid applying herbicides during periods of drought stress or when the trees are dormant.
* **Weather Conditions:** Avoid applying herbicides on windy days to prevent drift and unintended damage to desirable plants. Also, avoid applying herbicides immediately before or after rainfall, as this can wash the herbicide off the foliage or dilute its effectiveness.
* **Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):** Always wear appropriate PPE when handling herbicides, including gloves, eye protection, long sleeves, and pants. A respirator may be necessary when applying herbicides in enclosed spaces or when using concentrated formulations.
* **Environmental Concerns:** Be mindful of the potential impact of herbicides on non-target plants, wildlife, and water sources. Use herbicides judiciously and avoid overspraying.

**A. Foliar Spray**

Foliar spraying involves applying herbicide directly to the foliage (leaves and needles) of the cedar tree. This method is best suited for smaller trees (up to 6-8 feet tall) where thorough coverage can be achieved.

* **Tools Required:**
* Backpack sprayer or handheld sprayer
* Herbicide labeled for cedar trees (e.g., glyphosate, triclopyr)
* Surfactant (to improve herbicide adhesion to the foliage)
* Measuring cup or container
* Personal protective equipment (gloves, eye protection, long sleeves, pants)

* **Procedure:**
1. **Prepare the Herbicide Solution:** Mix the herbicide according to the manufacturer’s label instructions. Add a surfactant to the solution to improve the herbicide’s ability to stick to the waxy needles of the cedar tree. A typical surfactant rate is 0.25% to 0.5% by volume (e.g., 1-2 teaspoons per gallon of spray solution).
2. **Spray the Foliage:** Thoroughly spray all the foliage of the cedar tree, ensuring complete coverage. Pay particular attention to the growing tips and inner foliage. Avoid spraying to the point of runoff, as this can waste herbicide and increase the risk of drift.
3. **Monitor Results:** It may take several weeks or months for the herbicide to kill the tree. Monitor the treated trees for signs of decline, such as browning foliage. If necessary, a second application may be required.

* **Pros:**
* Relatively easy to apply.
* Effective for controlling small to medium-sized trees.

* **Cons:**
* Requires thorough coverage of the foliage.
* Can be affected by weather conditions (wind, rain).
* May not be effective on larger trees with dense foliage.
* Potential for drift and damage to non-target plants.

**B. Cut-Stump Treatment**

Cut-stump treatment involves cutting down the cedar tree and then applying herbicide directly to the freshly cut stump. This method is effective for preventing resprouting from the stump and is particularly useful for larger trees.

* **Tools Required:**
* Chainsaw or hand saw
* Herbicide labeled for cut-stump treatment (e.g., glyphosate, triclopyr)
* Paintbrush, spray bottle, or squirt bottle
* Personal protective equipment (gloves, eye protection, long sleeves, pants)

* **Procedure:**
1. **Cut Down the Tree:** Cut down the cedar tree as close to the ground as possible.
2. **Apply Herbicide Immediately:** Within minutes of cutting down the tree (ideally within 5-10 minutes), apply the herbicide to the freshly cut stump. The herbicide must be applied quickly to prevent the stump from sealing over, which would prevent the herbicide from being absorbed.
3. **Saturate the Cambium Layer:** Focus on saturating the cambium layer, which is the ring of living tissue just inside the bark. This is where the tree’s vascular system is located, and it is essential to get the herbicide into this layer to effectively kill the stump. Apply herbicide around the entire circumference of the stump, as well as across the entire cut surface, especially the outer edges.
4. **Monitor Results:** Check the stump periodically for signs of resprouting. If resprouting occurs, reapply the herbicide.

* **Pros:**
* Effective for preventing resprouting.
* Can be used on trees of any size.
* Reduces the risk of drift compared to foliar spraying.

* **Cons:**
* Requires cutting down the tree first.
* Herbicide must be applied immediately after cutting.
* Can be labor-intensive for large areas.

**C. Basal Bark Spray**

Basal bark spraying involves applying herbicide to the lower portion of the tree trunk (the basal bark). The herbicide is absorbed through the bark and translocated throughout the tree, killing it. This method is most effective for trees with a diameter of less than 6 inches and is particularly useful in areas where it is difficult to cut down the trees.

* **Tools Required:**
* Backpack sprayer or handheld sprayer
* Herbicide labeled for basal bark treatment (e.g., triclopyr ester)
* Penetrating oil (as a carrier for the herbicide)
* Measuring cup or container
* Personal protective equipment (gloves, eye protection, long sleeves, pants)

* **Procedure:**
1. **Prepare the Herbicide Solution:** Mix the herbicide with a penetrating oil (such as diesel fuel or a commercially available basal oil) according to the manufacturer’s label instructions. The penetrating oil helps the herbicide penetrate the bark.
2. **Spray the Basal Bark:** Spray the lower 12-18 inches of the tree trunk with the herbicide solution, thoroughly wetting the bark. Be sure to spray all the way around the trunk.
3. **Monitor Results:** It may take several weeks or months for the herbicide to kill the tree. Monitor the treated trees for signs of decline, such as browning foliage. If necessary, a second application may be required.

* **Pros:**
* Does not require cutting down the tree.
* Can be used in areas where it is difficult to access the trees.
* Reduces the risk of drift compared to foliar spraying.

* **Cons:**
* Less effective on trees larger than 6 inches in diameter.
* Requires the use of a penetrating oil, which can be environmentally damaging.
* Can be more expensive than other herbicide application methods.

### 3. Prescribed Burning

Prescribed burning, also known as controlled burning, is a carefully planned and executed fire used to manage vegetation, including cedar trees. This method is most effective in open areas with sufficient fuel to carry the fire and is typically used on a larger scale, such as for rangeland management.

**Important Considerations for Prescribed Burning:**

* **Expert Assistance:** Prescribed burning should only be conducted by trained and experienced professionals. It is crucial to have a burn plan in place that outlines the objectives, safety precautions, and contingency plans. Contact your local fire department, forestry agency, or land management organization for assistance.
* **Permits and Regulations:** Obtain all necessary permits and approvals from local authorities before conducting a prescribed burn. Be aware of any restrictions or regulations regarding burning in your area.
* **Weather Conditions:** Conduct prescribed burns only when weather conditions are favorable. Ideal conditions include moderate temperatures, low humidity, and light winds. Avoid burning during periods of high wind or drought.
* **Safety Precautions:** Take all necessary safety precautions to prevent the fire from escaping and causing damage to property or injury to people. This includes establishing firebreaks, having sufficient personnel and equipment on hand, and monitoring the fire closely.

* **Procedure:**
1. **Develop a Burn Plan:** Create a detailed burn plan that outlines the objectives of the burn, the area to be burned, the weather conditions required, the safety precautions to be taken, and the contingency plans in place.
2. **Prepare the Area:** Create firebreaks around the perimeter of the burn area to prevent the fire from spreading. Firebreaks can be created by clearing vegetation, plowing a strip of bare earth, or using water to wet down the vegetation.
3. **Conduct the Burn:** Ignite the fire using appropriate techniques, such as drip torches or propane burners. Monitor the fire closely and adjust the burn plan as needed to achieve the desired results.
4. **Extinguish the Fire:** Once the burn is complete, extinguish any remaining embers or hot spots to prevent the fire from reigniting.

* **Pros:**
* Effective for controlling large areas of cedar trees.
* Can promote the growth of native grasses and forbs.
* Reduces the risk of wildfires by removing fuel buildup.

* **Cons:**
* Requires specialized training and equipment.
* Can be risky if not conducted properly.
* Requires favorable weather conditions.
* Smoke can be a nuisance.

## Long-Term Cedar Control and Prevention

Killing cedar trees is only the first step in managing cedar populations. To prevent them from re-establishing and taking over your land, it is essential to implement long-term control and prevention strategies.

1. **Regular Monitoring:** Regularly monitor your land for new cedar seedlings and remove them promptly before they become established.
2. **Managed Grazing:** Implement a managed grazing program that encourages livestock to graze on cedar seedlings. Goats and sheep are particularly effective at controlling cedar trees.
3. **Competitive Vegetation:** Promote the growth of native grasses and forbs that can compete with cedar trees for resources. This can be achieved through reseeding, fertilization, and proper grazing management.
4. **Prescribed Burning (Regular Intervals):** Conduct prescribed burns on a regular interval (e.g., every 3-5 years) to prevent cedar trees from becoming dominant.
5. **Selective Herbicide Application:** Use selective herbicide application to control individual cedar trees that escape other control measures.

## Conclusion

Effectively killing cedar trees requires a combination of knowledge, planning, and effort. By understanding the different methods available and implementing a long-term control strategy, you can reclaim your land, promote a healthier ecosystem, and reduce the risk of wildfires. Remember to always prioritize safety and follow all applicable regulations when using herbicides or conducting prescribed burns. With persistence and dedication, you can successfully manage cedar populations and achieve your land management goals.