Veteran No-Tillers Share Tips to Tackle Invasive Saplings

Effective herbicide application and targeted removal methods can help control young trees in no-till fields.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 6:05am

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A bold, abstract painting in muted earth tones depicts the complex interplay of plant growth, herbicide application, and no-till farming practices through sweeping geometric shapes, concentric circles, and precise botanical spirals, conveying the structural order and natural forces at work in a no-till ecosystem.Innovative herbicide strategies and targeted removal methods help no-till farmers maintain control over unwanted sapling growth in their fields.Blanchester Today

Experienced no-till farmers are sharing their strategies for dealing with the problem of young trees and saplings invading their fields. From targeted Roundup applications to manual removal methods, these growers have developed effective techniques to keep their no-till operations free of unwanted woody growth.

Why it matters

Unchecked sapling growth in no-till fields can quickly become a major headache for farmers, competing with crops for nutrients and water while also creating challenges for equipment operation. Finding the right herbicide programs and removal methods is crucial for maintaining the long-term health and productivity of no-till systems.

The details

One veteran no-tiller recommends applying Roundup Ultra along with ammonium sulfate (AMS) and a drift control agent, spraying the saplings when temperatures are between 70-80°F. For non-Roundup Ready crops, he suggests using a wiper applicator to target the taller saplings before the crop canopy gets too high. Another grower, James Ash of Cornerbrook Enterprises, uses the herbicide Spike, applying it directly to the base of each sapling and then cutting off the dead tree below the soil surface. The key is timing the herbicide applications for optimal effectiveness, as Roundup Ultra becomes less effective when nighttime temperatures drop below 60°F.

  • The ideal temperature range for applying Roundup Ultra is 70-80°F.
  • Roundup Ultra becomes less effective when nighttime temperatures drop below 60°F.

The players

Ed Winkle

A no-tiller, crop scout and crop consultant from Blanchester, Ohio.

James Ash

The owner of Cornerbrook Enterprises in Decatur, Illinois.

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What they’re saying

“Apply Roundup Ultra along with AMS, water and a drift controller to a Roundup Ready crop. With an ATV and 15-gallon tank, use a small spray boom and/or hand spray wand. Wear sunscreen and a hat and cook the saplings when the temperature is 70 to 80 degrees!”

— Ed Winkle, No-tiller, crop scout and crop consultant

“I use Spike to control young trees. I place a handful of herbicide at the base of each sapling, then come back after the tree is dead and cut it off under the ground. This works great for me. But if you have a lot of trees, it would be time consuming.”

— James Ash, Owner, Cornerbrook Enterprises

The takeaway

Proactive management of invasive saplings is crucial for maintaining the long-term productivity and efficiency of no-till farming operations. By utilizing targeted herbicide applications and manual removal methods, growers can keep their fields clear of unwanted woody growth and ensure their no-till systems continue to thrive.