Mesquite Management
Screwbean Mesquite, photo Ladybird Johnson Wildflower Center
Q: Do you have an opinion on “Roller-Chopping” as a way to clear and control mesquite?
A: It’s a great way to control cedar but an ineffective way to control mesquite. Cedar won’t grow back and the shredded mulch left on the ground is an excellent soil builder. Mesquite will grow back. Best management for mesquite is to leave the big trees alone. Not only are they not a problem, they are beneficial to the soil. On acreage, livestock like the trees. The light shade is comfortable and the animals like the quality of the grass under mesquite trees. On the other hand, mesquites that have been sprayed, chained, or otherwise assaulted will grow back as bushes and NOW you have a problem. The only solution at this point is aggressive grubbing and ripping to remove the the plants. Those who recommend harsh herbicides are environmental polluters and ineffective to boot. Using diesel with molasses is OK to use for difficult to control trees.