Most of a tree’s root system is in the top 18-25 inches of soil. This makes it seem like they’d be easy to find, but they’re not.
They have as much mass below ground as above. Tree root systems can stretch out for so long that they’re almost impossible to kill. They can even become a hazard to nearby homes.
Read on to learn how to remove tree roots.
How to Remove Tree Roots Without Harming the Tree
Figuring out how to remove tree roots without damaging your tree starts by gathering the right materials. You’ll need a:
- Hose
- Trowel
- Wheelbarrow
- Tarp
- Root saw
Create a root barrier by softening the area until its damp. Use the trowel to loosen the soil.
Dig a trench between them and the area you want to keep them away from. Keep a root protection zone of 12:1 or 12 inches for every inch of trunk diameter.
Your barrier should be made of metal, plastic, or concrete. Cover the area with soil, pat it down, and wet it when you’re done.
Getting these measurements exactly right and not hitting an important part of the root system is difficult. Call a professional tree root removal service.
Removing Roots After Removing a Tree
There are several signs you may need to remove a tree. Cracks up the middle of the trunk and peeling bark indicate decay. It may also stop growing leaves or drop branches.
Tree root systems don’t always go away after removal. If they grow too close to your home, they can tear the foundation, wrap around pipelines, and lift patios. New growths suck up moisture and are breeding grounds for pests.
Professional stump grinding doesn’t remove underground roots, but it does cause them to decay and become part of the soil. Severing them at the base of the stump keeps them from regrowing.
There are also chemical methods for removing tree roots. You can use:
- Chemical herbicides
- Epsom salts
- Rock salts
Removing Roots Under Concrete
You have two options if your tree roots start to push through or sit under concrete.
You can cut or kill them to stop their growth. Make sure to cut them off at their source or use chemicals.
The other method is a bit more costly. Remove the concrete and the roots and then pour new concrete.
Removing Roots Inside Your Plumbing Pipes
Roots can wreak havoc on your plumbing. Hiring a professional is the best way to get rid of them, but there are a few steps you can take while you wait to get rid of them.
Pour half a pound of rock salt into your toilet and flush. Don’t use it for up to 12 hours, then close off the bathroom. Repeat the process every month.
Where to Get Professional Tree Removal
Knowing how to remove tree roots is important even if you want to protect the plant they’re connected to. You also need to get rid of the roots from a tree you removed and keep them from getting to your concrete or pipes.
P’n’D Logging and Tree Service has been preparing land in the Greater Puget Sound Area since 1977. Contact us for tree root removal today.