Q.When using salt or de-icing salt to kill small trees, at what distance will the salt kill nearby vegetation?
The trees I want to get rid of are about 7 feet tall and have shrubs or perennials nearby.
The salt will affect the nearby shrubs/perennials. Better to use a systemic herbicide cut stump treatment.
5
Use herbicide concentrate at full strength (glyphosate active ingredient about 18%) Cut the small tree off down low just above the soil grade and immediately spray or paint the surface of the cut stump with the herbicide solution. It will be absorbed into the root system for a complete kill without affecting the nearby plants.
You can use an ironing type spray bottle, chemical resistant gloves, long sleeve shirt and eye protection to protect yourself. Spray or paint directly on to the cut surface, especially around the outer surface, no need to score or notch the stump. Don't overspray onto the soil or other plants and the environmental contamination will be minimal.