I’ve dug them out, hacked them apart, and even tried ignoring them—but tree roots don’t back down.
The deeper you go, the tougher they get, twisting and weaving through the ground like an unbreakable web. And just when you think you’ve won, they come creeping back, sprouting new shoots as if mocking your efforts.
It’s exhausting, frustrating, and downright maddening. These roots don’t just invade your space—they claim it, growing stronger the more you try to remove them.
If you’ve ever spent hours breaking your back only to see fresh growth a few weeks later, I know your pain.
But don’t worry, I’ll help you fix it in no time!
Wait, Why Destroy Tree Roots?
Tree roots may seem harmless, but anyone who’s dealt with them knows they can be absolute tyrants.
They invade foundations, crack sidewalks, clog pipes, and steal nutrients from surrounding plants. Left unchecked, they can wreak havoc underground while sending up unwanted shoots all over your yard.
Even if the tree itself looks peaceful, its roots are working overtime beneath the surface, expanding, twisting, and spreading into places they shouldn’t be. If you’re tired of them taking over, it’s time to take action.
Before You Start, Beware Of This!
Tearing into tree roots without a plan is a recipe for disaster. These things are stubborn, and if you don’t approach them the right way, you’ll either make more work for yourself or do irreversible damage.
Before anything else, consider how removing the roots will affect the tree. If it’s still standing, cutting too many roots can make it unstable, increasing the risk of it toppling over in a storm.
Some species are more resilient, but others will start declining the moment you sever their lifeline underground.
Another thing to keep in mind—roots don’t just disappear after you cut them. Some will sprout back stronger, some will leave behind decaying matter that attracts pests, and others will continue causing problems even after being severed.
A half-done job can be worse than not starting at all, so go in prepared. You need to know how deep the roots run, how aggressive they are, and what method will truly stop them without creating a new problem down the line.
The First Option Is Digging
When it comes to removing tree roots the old-fashioned way, digging is as direct as it gets. If you want full control and a method that guarantees the roots are out for good, nothing beats getting in there with a shovel, axe, and a whole lot of determination.
Start by exposing the roots by digging around them, following their path until you reach the sections you want gone.
A sharp spade or root saw will help you slice through them cleanly, making removal easier. The deeper you go, the better your chances of stopping regrowth.
But here’s the catch—digging is backbreaking work, and it’s not always realistic for larger root systems. Some trees send their roots so deep that you could be at it for hours, only to find more lurking below.
And if the roots are near important structures like a foundation or sewer line, you need to be extra careful. The last thing you want is to dig too aggressively and create a bigger problem. Digging works best for smaller trees or root systems that aren’t too invasive.
If you’re tackling something massive, you might want to combine it with another method.
You Can Also Cut In Intervals
If you’re not in a rush to get rid of the roots all at once, cutting in intervals can be a strategic way to weaken them over time.
This method involves making clean cuts in the roots at different stages, gradually reducing their ability to support the tree or regenerate. By severing sections at the right points, you can disrupt their ability to transport nutrients, eventually leading to their decline.
Use a sharp pruning saw or a specialized root cutter, and make sure each cut is precise to avoid unnecessary stress on surrounding areas.
This method works well for roots that are too thick to remove in one go or when you’re trying to prevent shock to a tree that you still want to keep alive. However, it requires patience.
Roots don’t die overnight, and if they’re connected to a strong tree, they’ll fight back for as long as they can.
Regular monitoring is key—you’ll need to check the site and repeat the process until the roots finally stop pushing through. It’s a slower battle, but sometimes, slow and steady wins the race.
Salt Is Your Friend In This Case
If you want to destroy tree roots without digging or cutting, salt can be a powerful ally. Rock salt or Epsom salt dehydrates the roots, drawing out moisture until they dry up and die.
The process is simple—drill holes into the roots, fill them with salt, and add water to help it absorb. Over time, the salt will work its way through the system, disrupting the tree’s ability to take in water and nutrients.
It’s one of the most effective ways to get rid of roots without immediate physical labor.
That said, salt doesn’t discriminate. If you overdo it, it can affect surrounding plants, turning your soil into a barren wasteland.
It’s best to use this method carefully, targeting only the roots you need gone. Covering the treated area with a tarp can help prevent runoff, ensuring that the salt stays where it’s supposed to.
If you’re dealing with a particularly stubborn root system, repeating the process over several weeks will increase your chances of success.
Tarp And Fertilizer Combo
If patience is on your side, smothering the roots with a tarp and high-nitrogen fertilizer can be an effective way to break them down.
This method works by depriving the roots of sunlight and speeding up decomposition.
First, cover the area with a heavy-duty tarp, blocking out oxygen and moisture. Then, apply a generous layer of high-nitrogen fertilizer—this accelerates bacterial activity, which helps break down the roots faster.
Over time, they’ll weaken, decay, and eventually become soft enough to remove with ease.
The biggest advantage of this method is that it requires minimal effort once set up. But it does take time—sometimes months, depending on the size of the roots.
If you’re looking for an instant fix, this isn’t it. However, for those willing to wait, it’s one of the most environmentally friendly ways to eliminate roots without harsh chemicals.
Herbicides Can Also Help You
For a more aggressive approach, chemical herbicides can stop roots in their tracks. Products containing glyphosate or triclopyr are designed to destroy roots at the source, preventing regrowth.
Apply the herbicide directly to freshly cut roots, allowing it to absorb into the system. This method works quickly, often showing results within weeks. However, precision is key—applying herbicides carelessly can affect surrounding plants and soil health.
If you go this route, always follow label instructions and apply the herbicide on a dry, windless day to prevent accidental spread.
Keep pets and children away from the treated area until it’s fully absorbed. While chemical solutions can be highly effective, they should be a last resort if other methods aren’t feasible.
What To Do After Removing The Tree Roots
Once the roots are gone, the job isn’t over. The space they left behind needs to be properly filled to prevent sinking and future regrowth.
Use a mix of fresh soil and compost to restore the ground, making sure to compact it well. If you removed roots near a structure, check for signs of damage—foundations, sidewalks, and pipes might need reinforcement.
You’ll also want to monitor the area for a while. Some roots, especially aggressive ones, can send up new shoots even after removal.
Keep an eye out and deal with them immediately to prevent another takeover. A little post-removal maintenance goes a long way in keeping your yard root-free.
When To Call Professionals?
If the roots are near critical structures, deeper than expected, or too thick to handle with basic tools, it’s time to call in the pros.
Professional arborists and landscapers have specialized equipment to remove roots safely without damaging surrounding areas. If you’re dealing with a root system that feels more like an underground fortress, expert help can save you time, effort, and future headaches.
Another sign you need professionals? If the tree itself is at risk of falling after root removal. If you’re unsure, getting an expert opinion is always worth it.
Better safe than sorry when dealing with something as unpredictable as tree roots.
Tree roots may be relentless, but with the right approach, they don’t stand a chance. Take control, clear them out, and reclaim your space for good!