Will Painting Herbicide On Aspen Shoots Harm Aspen Trees

Question From: Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, United States
Q: I've been told to nip Aspen shoots that are sprouting all over my lawns and paint the Blackberry brush killer on them. Will this affect the Aspen trees that border my yard and my neighbors yard? Thanks for your help. CJ

A: It can harm the trees. Pulling the tiny trees from the roots will probably do them in. The only safe way to use herbicide would be to sever the root first. Best And Happy Yardening, Nancy.