Where should you apply the herbicide when performing a cut stump treatment?

• A. Paint the entire stump with the application.
• B. Around the edge of the tree and root flare.
• C. In the soil surrounding the tree.
• D. On the leaves of the tree.

Answer: (A)

For a cut stump treatment, the herbicide needs to enter the exposed living tissue of the cut surface so it can be absorbed and moved down into the stump and roots. Painting the entire cut face ensures that every part of the cambial tissue is coated, maximizing uptake and ensuring the chemical reaches the root system to kill the stump and prevent resprouting. Do this promptly after cutting while the surface is fresh for the best translocation. Applying the herbicide around the edge, in the soil, or on the leaves won’t deliver it into the stump’s vascular tissue and can lead to poor control or unintended damage.