How to Kill Mimosa Saplings
The striking beauty of a mimosa tree (Albizia julibrissin) is undeniable. Its ferny leaves and feathery blossoms, plus its ability to grow fast and well in less than desirable conditions, mimosa is often a choice tree in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 6 through 9. The problem is, you won’t end up with just one mimosa -- one turns into two, into three. In several years, your neighbors could be battling against mimosa saplings or seedlings in their yards. Because mimosas produce an abundance of seeds and with their ability to germinate and grow in most conditions, they are considered invasive in several areas. To rid your yard of mimosa trees, or to control their spread, attack the problem when they are still saplings.
Water mimosa saplings with 1/2 inch of water if the soil is dry and compacted. Wait about 30 minutes, then pull on the saplings to lift the roots from the soil. Alternatively, use a trowel to dig the saplings from the soil. Discard the saplings and their roots. If any roots are left behind, they may re-sprout.
Apply a ready-to-use 2 percent solution of glyphosate or triclopyr with a surfactant on a dry, calm day to kill mimosa saplings. Spray until the leaves are completely wet. Do not allow the spray to touch the plants you want to keep, especially when using glyphosate. Reapply if new sprouts grow.
Cut mimosa saplings flush to the ground or just under the soil line with a pair of pruning shears. Continue to cut new sprouts in the same way until they stop sprouting.
- Always follow the instructions on the herbicide label because instructions vary among brands.
- Keep children and pets out of the area until the herbicide has dried.
Melissa Lewis is a former elementary classroom teacher and media specialist. She has also written for various online publications. Lewis holds a Bachelor of Arts in psychology from the University of Maryland Baltimore County.