Can I Plant a Tree in the Same Place I Just Removed a Stump of Another Tree From?
- The use of herbicides to kill an unwanted tree is a popular tree-killing method. Gardeners can either drill holes to inject the herbicide or pour the herbicide directly over the dripline of the tree, so it soaks through to the roots. The type of herbicide that was used is the determining factor of when a new tree can be planted in the area. Non-selective herbicide that contains glyphosate leaves little chemical residue in the soil after its application. You can feel safe to plant a new tree in the location if you used glyphosate.
- The herbicide imazapyr stays in the soil longer than glyphosate. It takes roughly 24 months for the herbicide to be completely leached from the soil. Because seedlings are sensitive to herbicides, it is vitally important to wait two years before planting in the former tree's location. To know when you should plant again, look at the label of the herbicide to see when it suggests new planting can begin.
- Phytophthora root rot is a common fungal disease that infects trees. Symptoms include dieback of branches, discoloration of leaves, and mushy areas in the roots. Plants generally contract the disease if the soil has inadequate drainage. Once the soil is infected with root rot it may take years for the fungus to die out in the soil, especially if the area continues to get waterlogged. According to the University of California, one of the best lines of defense is to plant a cultivar or type of tree that is certified to be resistant to phytophthora root rot. In addition, gardeners can increase the drainage of the area by adding soil amendments, such as compost.
- Just because the stump has been removed from the area, does not mean that roots are not lurking underneath the soil. Roots that are still in the soil can prevent the new tree from establishing a root system of its own and spreading. It takes several years for roots to fully decompose. You can water the area and dig out the roots using a sharp spade and landscaping bar. It is important that all of the roots are removed before planting a new tree.
