Should I get rid of this tree?

Question

Hope this is the right forum - I have a question for the gardening and landscaping experts in the BP community.

This tree/shrub is planted very close to a field stone foundation. I cut it way back in the Fall, but apparently that only made it stronger. After looking at lots of leaf pictures I think it might be a Siberian Elm, but not totally sure. Location is in MA.

Should I remove it? If so, can I just cut it down to the soil, or would it just grow back again?

Terrell Garren · Answer

@Jossi S. Two answers

1) Cut it off at the ground. Spray a little brush killer on the stump.

2) Be thankful you did not pursue a career in photography,

Best, Terrell

Jossi S. · Answer

I appreciate the advice Terrell! It sounds like I need to treat this tree the way you did my artistic hopes and dreams :)

Allan Szlafrok · Answer

@Jossi S. Get rid of it and then make a donation to the Arbor Day Foundation so you don’t feel guilty : ) You want the areas that close to your foundations neat and sloping away from the foundation. As it happens a tree was the source of water problems we were having in my own home so I can tell you from experience you should get rid of it and maybe plant a sapling somewhere else.

Craig Tripp · Answer

I have found that cutting it low to the ground and covering with an upside down flower pot will take care of it in a season and prevent it from growing back with a vengeance.

Remove the light and oxygen and it’s gone for good.

Jossi S. · Answer

Thanks everyone for your advice! Looks like it's a unanimous opinion that the tree must go.

@allan szlafrok - love the arbor day foundation idea.

Sai T. · Answer

Yes, this tree must go!

Bill B. · Answer

There’s zero chance I wouldn’t remove that. But I live in the desert and the only trees I like are Palm trees. It’s not doing your foundation and good with roots and water.

Should I get rid of this tree?

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