Spotting a single weed in your lawn might tempt you to launch a full-blown herbicidal mission to wipe out anything in your yard that isn’t grass. But going overboard with weed control could unintentionally harm that beautiful flowering tree on your lawn that makes your home the envy of the neighborhood every spring. It’s a common concern—many homeowners use store-bought herbicides thinking they’ll only target the weeds, only to discover damage to nearby trees, shrubs, or garden plants. 

If you’re facing this challenge, Seaview Landscapes is here to help. As a trusted provider of expert landscaping, lawn and yard care, and tree removal services across Cape May County—including Avalon, Wildwood, Stone Harbor, Brigantine, and Margate—we’ve seen firsthand how improper herbicide use can threaten even mature, healthy trees. Keep reading to learn how to control weeds without putting your trees and landscape at risk.

Can Weed Killers Harm Trees?

Yes—weed killers can absolutely harm trees if they’re not used properly. Many herbicides contain an active ingredient designed to disrupt the growth of unwanted plants, but that same ingredient can also impact tree roots, leaves, and bark. The risk isn’t always immediately obvious because the damage often occurs underground. A tree’s root system can extend far beyond its trunk and sometimes into areas treated for weed control. Products don’t need to be labeled as “tree and brush killer” or “tree herbicide” to cause long-term harm if applied without careful attention.

How Herbicides Reach Trees

Tree roots, especially those close to the soil’s surface, can absorb herbicides that leach into the ground. Trees planted near garden beds, lawns, or vegetable plots are particularly vulnerable when treated with broadleaf weed killers or herbicides that are “safe for trees” in name only. Runoff water, wind drift during spraying, and even contact through mulch or bark can deliver harmful chemicals to your trees. In some cases, a sprayer used on a nearby shrub or flower can unintentionally coat a tree’s trunk or surrounding root zone, damaging its health over time.

Types of Weed Control Products Known to Harm Trees

Certain types of weed control products can pose a significant threat to trees, especially when used incorrectly or in large quantities. Broadleaf weed killers often contain active ingredients like glyphosate, triclopyr, or dicamba, which are formulated to target the growth systems of unwanted plants. Even selective lawn weed control products, designed to target specific weeds like dandelions or clover without harming the grass, can be dangerous to trees if they’re not used carefully. 

These chemicals don’t discriminate when it comes to roots and can easily affect nearby trees if absorbed through the soil or root zone. Even products marketed as herbicides safe for trees can be risky if applied near the base, trunk, or dripline of a tree. To protect your trees, it’s important to read product labels closely, follow all application guidelines, and avoid treating areas near valuable ornamentals or shade trees.

Spotting the Signs of Herbicide Damage

Tree damage from herbicides may not be visible immediately, sometimes taking weeks or months to become apparent. Look for symptoms like curled or discolored leaves, poor new growth, or thinning canopies. In more severe cases, the tree’s trunk may show splitting, or the bark may begin to peel. These signs are often confused with disease or insect damage, but in many cases, improperly applied weed control is the underlying cause.

Using Weed Killers Responsibly

Responsible weed control starts with knowing which products to use and where to apply them. Some herbicides are powerful enough to eliminate large, invasive species of weeds but can just as easily harm healthy shade trees and nearby plants. Always follow label directions and avoid using weed killers near tree roots, even if the product claims to be safe for trees. 

Alternatives to Harmful Herbicides

Instead of relying solely on chemical treatments, consider mechanical methods and natural solutions. Mulch can suppress weeds while also insulating your soil and supporting nutrient retention. Manual removal of broadleaf weeds and other invasive species is time-consuming, but it can be safer for the surrounding landscape. Additionally, using selective herbicides with a sprayer designed for precision helps reduce drift and accidental contact with your trees.

All-natural lawn weed killers made from ingredients are generally considered safer for trees when used correctly. These organic alternatives work best on young, shallow-rooted weeds and typically don’t have the long-lasting soil activity that synthetic herbicides do, which reduces the risk of tree roots being absorbed. Corn gluten meal, for instance, is a pre-emergent option that prevents weed seeds from germinating without harming established plants. When applied mindfully, natural products can support effective weed control while preserving the health of surrounding trees, shrubs, and other desirable plants.

Seaview Landscapes provides expert advice and application techniques to protect your trees while effectively managing weeds. Our team understands how different species of trees, shrubs, and garden plants react to herbicides and how to balance pest control and plant health.

The Importance of Tree Care and Site Planning

Professional lawn and yard care can play a big role in preventing accidental damage. A certified arborist can assess your tree’s condition and determine the best course of action if it’s already been affected by pesticide or herbicide exposure. 

Planning your site layout with root zones, groundcover, and garden locations in mind can also minimize the need for aggressive weed control down the road. A healthy lawn, flower bed, or vegetable garden depends on thoughtful planning, regular watering, proper fertilization, and integrated pest control. Trees and shrubs, especially those in nutrient-poor or acidic soil, may already be under stress—adding toxic herbicides without guidance only compounds the problem.

Partner with Seaview Landscapes to Protect Your Trees

Your outdoor space is a living system—and one misstep with the wrong product can do more harm than good. If you’re dealing with invasive species or broadleaf weeds and want effective control without compromising the health of your trees, Seaview Landscapes is ready to help. We offer professional guidance and services designed to keep your lawn, garden, and trees thriving every season.

Contact us today to learn more about our landscaping, weed control, and tree care options. Let us help you achieve a vibrant, safe, and sustainable yard that reflects the beauty of your home.