How to Kill Elm Trees

Overview

Elms (Ulmus) as large shade trees that produce dense foliage and can grow as high as 100 feet. This lovely tree, which normally increases property values, can become too invasive. Over time the roots can extend too close to structures, threatening to cause cracks in the foundations. When this happens the Elm tree can be very tricky to kill if proper procedures are not followed.

Step 1

Slide a sharp knife underneath the bark. This will loosen the bark of the tree from its green layer. These cuts into the bark are referred to as "frills."

Step 2

Pour some tree poison into the spray bottle at full strength.

Step 3

Spray the tree poison into the patches of loosened bark. The tree's phloem will take the poison directly to the roots, killing off the tree.