How to Remove Sumac Trees

Not all sumac trees or bushes are poisonous, but many varieties common in North America are poisonous. You can identify sumac by its compound leaves that turn a red color in the fall and the reddish fruit it produces in the summer. Sumac trees are a serious nuisance because many species contain a chemical called urushiol, the same chemical in poison ivy or poison oak that causes the familiar itching and blisters. Unless you properly destroy the roots, sumac trees will sprout up again and grow quickly.

Things You'll Need

• Tree cutting tools such as a saw, axe, lopper or harp blade Protective clothing (long sleeve shirt and pants) Protective gear including gloves and goggles Herbicide such as Roundup or Bush-B-Gone Low pressure sprayer or sponge applicator (like those used for painting)

Instructions

1. Wearing protective gear and protective clothing use tree cutting tools to cut down your sumac tree down to only the stump. This is most effective just after the tree has flowered usually in July.

2. Apply a commercial herbicide such as Roundup or Bush-B-Gon to the sumac stump using a low pressure sprayer or sponge tipped applicator. Be careful not to get the herbacide on any other plants because these herbacides are not selective and will kill any plant they touch.

3. In August, when sumac sprouts start growing back, cut down any new sumac trees using your cutting tools. Don't forget to wear protective clothing and gear.

4. You may apply small amounts of herbicide on any remaining stumps taking great care not to overspray and kill other nearby plants.

5. You may need to repeat these steps for several years in a row if you have many sumac trees in one area.

Tips & Warnings

• Salt actually stays in the environment longer than herbacides so it is best not to use a brine to kill sumac trees.

• Always follow label directions when using herbicide. It's the law. Always wash all tools, clothing and protective gear after removing sumac trees. Do not try to burn poison sumac because the the smoke will carry the urushiol. Do not use kerosene or motor oil to kill the sumac tree because it will contaminate the entire area.

References

• The Old Farmers Almanac
• Conservation Commission of Missouri