| [College of ACES] | [University of Illinois] | [Illinois CES] |
There is a drastic method, you can't change your mind after it's done. It's a silvicural technique that we use with urban forest management or woodlot management to preserve stimulate regenetation and keep wildlife and insects present. Cut a strip (1 inch) at the base of the trunk (it's less visible) all around the tree. This injury will stop the circulation of the sap. It's relatively quick and you'll see it's efficient. Your tree will fall apart very slowly (first with the leaves and so on). If you want to kill your want, I'm sure it will!
Good luck and Merry Xmas!