Need help with Brazilian Pepper/Cuban Laurel problem

[855atty]

Hello everyone, been awhile, but that's another story. I'm in S. FL with some acres of land being taken over by Brazil and Cuba. These trees grow about 10-15 FEET per year and with all the rain this year, maybe more. I made the mistake by not keeping up--my Rhino cutter will only chew on 2" or so--been thru a couple of drive protection bolts.

I'm thinking about renting one of those machines the DOT uses to clear right of ways. Is there something else i can do? Empty land next door has trees actually flowing over my fence line like waves. Easy to get under but I really need a vertical cutter. Anyone know of such a thing for a compact tractor [got a JD855] but i'm thinking i need to go bigger.

Any ideas?
Thanks!

 

[jeff9366]

I suggest herbicide.

I used to participate in Brazilian Pepper control/eradication program on Cedar Key and there was a special herbicide for the Pepper.

 

[855atty]

thanks jeff9366,
do you know what it was? i've tried Roundup, but it doesn't kill the tree, just a few branches where the sprayed leaves were.

 

[jeff9366]

Here are herbicide recommendations from Brevard County:

http://www.brevardcounty.us/docs/eel-documents/how-to-control-brazilian-pepper.pdf?sfvrsn=3

Note that Brevard suggests spraying trees in a 15" band around the trunk. I expect two or three applications one week apart will be necessary, based on my Cedar Key experience. A few will pop up from seed each year, requiring further vigilance.

Roundup/Glycophosphate comes in many strengths. Common garden center strength is 18%. Tractor Supply Company sells 42% Glycophospate in 1 gallon and 2-1/2 gallon plastic containers.

Your neighbor is required by Florida law to control his "nuisance" Brazilian Pepper. Talk to your city or county administrator.

 

[855atty]

Thanks all, i appreciate the replies.

I still need the cut the trees in my yard and those coming from the vacant area for disposal. still think one of those vertical brush cutters would do the trick.

anybody have any other ideas for removal now that we've done the killing'?

 

[jeff9366]

You have not specified what "some acres" are.

Consider having a forestry mulching company come in with their specialized equipment which goes right through jungle, leaving nothing but mulch behind the machines.