Not Just For Weeds: The Garden Tool For Killing Unwanted Tree Roots

There are many problems that are caused by tree roots. For example, they pop up in unwanted places and steal nutrients from other plants. Worse yet? They can also damage underground structures such as plumbing and foundations. There's a solution, though. Just as you can use certain chemicals to control stubborn weeds, systemic herbicides can also be used to kill unwanted tree roots — making them a potentially useful tool when you need to eliminate roots attached to a tree or stump you intend to remove.

Systemic herbicides work by traveling through the vascular system of the plant roots and disrupting essential processes like cell division and amino acid metabolism, leading to tissue and plant death. Common examples of systemic herbicides include glyphosate and triclopyr. There are, however, other types of systemic herbicides as well, and the right choice depends on what type of plant you are dealing with. Just keep in mind that because systemic herbicides move through the plant's vascular system, they can be harmful or even deadly to the whole tree.

This method is therefore best reserved for roots attached to a tree that you actually want to eliminate. The same principle can apply to roots emerging from a stump that is producing unwanted growth. In other words, if you see that your neighbor's tree roots are invading your yard, don't just start spraying or injecting them with systemic herbicides. Instead, discuss the issue with your neighbor first before treating roots that may be connected to a living tree on their property.

Systemic herbicides can work relatively quickly, with some products producing visible effects within a few days to several weeks. However, you must make sure that you're using them properly, as spilling them onto surrounding vegetation and soil can lead to unwanted results. So, start by carefully exposing a large section of the unwanted tree root that you want to remove by removing the soil. Once exposed, drill a few holes in it. Then, pour the herbicide into the holes using a funnel. 

You can use the same method on a tree stump that has been producing new unwanted roots, as well. Just make sure that when you are drilling holes, you go beyond the bark. The systemic herbicide must come into contact with living tissue, preferably the vascular system, so it can kill the roots. You also need to make sure you pour the systemic herbicide into the drilled holes as soon as possible. Delaying treatment can reduce the amount of herbicide absorbed by plant tissue.

Lastly, make sure you are not just using the most popular product out there, as different tree species require systemic herbicides with different ingredients and concentrations. Instead, talk to an expert or contact your local extension service. They can not only help you choose the right one for killing the unwanted tree roots in your yard but also help you grow a gorgeous garden later on.