Property owners love their majestic trees that add beauty and market value. However, the parts of our trees that go unseen can present some serious problems. Tree roots can interfere with landscaping, damage buildings, and impact the health of surrounding plants.
Dos Amigos Tree Experts, the leader in expert tree services in Newington, VA, shares the following information about how to remove tree roots from your yard when they cause problems.
Assess the Situation
Before jumping into root removal, it’s important to understand the nature of the problem:
- Tree status. Are the roots from a live tree or a removed stump? Working with a living tree requires great care to avoid damage or killing the tree. In some cases, you might be dealing with a partially uprooted tree, which requires professional assessment to determine whether it can be saved or must be removed.
- Damage assessment. An expert can determine whether roots are affecting structures, such as sidewalks, foundations, or plumbing.
- End goal. Use different methods depending on whether you want to prevent regrowth, eliminate tripping hazards, or clear areas for new landscaping.
Check with a certified arborist to make sure you have a good understanding of your project.
Root Removal Methods
These are some of the best practices tree professionals follow when removing roots.
Root Cutting
Precision cutting works for small sections of problematic roots. Tree professionals expose the root with minimal soil disturbance, then use a sharp saw or loppers to make clean cuts. All cuts should be at least three times the trunk diameter of the tree to avoid destabilizing the root system.
Chemical Treatment
Properly selected chemicals can prevent regrowth from a stump or extensive root system. Arborists apply herbicides like glyphosate directly to fresh cuts on roots or stumps, taking care to avoid contact with desirable plants nearby. Chemicals can take several weeks or months to work effectively.
Excavation
Tree service professionals use heavy equipment to completely remove large roots or root balls. This method prepares land for essentially any new use but requires expert care to avoid damaging subsurface structures or utility lines. Nothing matches excavation when considering how to remove tree roots from your yard.
Stump Grinding
Tree service companies have specialized equipment that removes tree stumps and roots to just below the ground surface. The equipment grinds the material to sawdust that you might choose to repurpose as mulch.
Root Barriers
Barriers can be effective for small or just-planted trees. They are typically manufactured with plastic or geotextile material placed between the tree and the protected area. For young trees, barriers can redirect root growth without harming the tree.
Soil Aeration
As preparation for further use of turf after root removal, aeration helps to restore soil health. Experts use a core aerator to perforate compacted soil. That allows air, water, and nutrients to penetrate.
Best Root Removal Practices
Consult a professional for expert assessment and removal services. A certified arborist will follow these guidelines to protect your property:
- Protect soil health. Avoid over-excavating or overusing harsh chemicals that can harm your soil.
- Plan for future growth. Use root barriers and choose trees with non-invasive roots when replanting.
- Safety first. Be cautious of underground utilities and adhere to local regulations on tree removal.
Choose Dos Amigos Tree Experts in Newington, VA
Dos Amigos Tree Experts is a family-owned company committed to high-quality service and customer satisfaction. Led by certified arborist Andrian Bobina, we provide free estimates and transparent pricing for all tree care needs, including stump grinding, root cutting, and more.
Now that we’ve discussed how to remove tree roots from your yard, you can count on us. Whether you need advice on chemical treatment, rerooting a tree branch, or large-scale excavation, we’re ready to help.
Contact us today at (703) 300-6103 to schedule service!
