This herbicide kills treated black locust stems, but vigorous sprouts develop from roots. Stump treatments that do not effectively control the tree's root system may necessitate several additional years of foliar treatment of root sprouts. Tordon RTU has high soil mobility and persistence, and is no longer labelled for use on sandy soils. Girdling kills the black locust stem that is girdled, but it does not prevent the formation of suckers. Mowing areas around mature trees where seed pods have dropped seems to promote seed germination.
Fire kills the main stems but prolific sprouting results.
References Anderson, L.E. Woody Plant Control. Extension Guide No. 4865. Collingwood, G.H. and W.D. Brush. Knowing your trees. Converse, C.K. 1985.