Best Tools to Remove Roots

Although root removal is not a difficult task, there are several ways to remove the roots from your plants. However, this must be handled with care and utmost attention. To do this efficiently, you will require a few special equipment that can help you get the job done in no time.

Why should you remove tree roots?

Removing tree roots is important for the overall health of your plants. When left unchecked, these roots can cause a lot of damage to sidewalks, driveways, and plumbing systems. They can also wreak havoc on the surrounding soil, making it difficult for other plants to grow.

Not removing these roots can also lead to some serious health problems for your plants. Over time, the roots can grow so large that they prevent water and nutrients from reaching the rest of the plant. This can cause the plant to die or become severely stunted.

How do you remove tree roots?

There are several ways to remove tree roots, but not all of them are suitable for every situation. Make sure you do it properly because the roots are very important to the tree. The most common methods are:

Cutting: This is probably the most popular way to remove tree roots. You can use a chainsaw, reciprocating saw, hatchet, or any other type of cutting tool to cut through the roots. Be careful not to damage the surrounding soil while you’re doing this.
Pulling: If the root system is small, you can simply pull it out of the ground. However, this method is not very effective for larger roots.
Digging: This is the most reliable way to remove tree roots, but it can also be the most time consuming. You’ll need to use a shovel or other digging tool to dig up the root system.

What tools do you need?

To properly remove tree roots, you will need a few special tools that are designed for this purpose. These include:

Shovel

The most popular way to remove the roots is by using a shovel. When you use a shovel, ensure that the blade is facing downwards so that it can easily cut through the roots. If there are large chunks of dirt around the root system, try to pry them off with the shovel before cutting the roots. This will make your job easier and faster.

A shovel is necessary for digging up the root system. It’s also helpful for moving soil around when you’re not digging up the roots.

Spade

Another tool you can use for removing plants’ roots is a spade. A spade has a flat end, which makes it perfect for digging out stubborn or deep-seated roots. It also has sharp edges which allow you to cut through thick vines or stems quickly.

A spade is used for clearing away roots around trees, shrubs or other plants that have become encrusted with dirt and roots. Even if this tool isn’t used to cut the roots, it can still be helpful in removing them from the ground.

Chisel

A chisel is used for digging smaller holes or cutting roots off at the base. It’s lightweight and doesn’t have as much force as a root digger, but it’s also less expensive than many other tools.

Trowel

If you have smaller plants, then using a trowel would be more appropriate. A trowel is a small, handheld tool that has a pointed end and a curved blade. It’s perfect for digging around the roots of smaller plants without causing any damage to them.

Stump grinder

This is a specialized tool that is used for grinding down tree stumps. If you have a large stump in your yard, you will need to use a stump grinder to remove it.

Chainsaw

A chainsaw is an essential tool for cutting through large tree roots. Make sure the chainsaw is in good condition and always wear protective gear when using it.

Root digger

A root digger is a large, heavy-duty bladed tool with a rigid handle and sharp point. It comes in various lengths, so you can use whichever one fits your needs. It has strong jaws that are designed to grip the root system and yank it out of the ground.

Ax

An ax can be used to chop through smaller roots. Make sure the blade is sharp and be careful not to damage the surrounding soil.

Sawzall

A sawzall is a powerful reciprocating saw that can easily cut through tree roots. It’s perfect for cutting small to medium-sized roots.

Pruning shears

Lastly, you can use a pair of pruning shears to cut away the roots. This is only recommended if the root system is small and manageable. Pruning shears are sharp and precise, so it’s easy to snip off the offending roots without damaging the plant.

Removing small roots

If the root system is small, you can simply pull it out of the ground. This is an easy task if the soil is soft and wet. However, if the soil is dry or hard, it will be difficult to remove the roots without causing damage to them. In this case, you can use a shovel or spade to loosen the dirt around the roots before pulling them out.

Be careful not to damage the surrounding plants when you’re pulling out the roots. If you’re having trouble removing them, try using a garden hose to soften the soil.

Digging out large roots

If the root system is large, then you’ll need to use a shovel or other digging tool to remove it from the ground. When you’re digging, make sure that the blade of the shovel is facing downwards so that it can easily cut through the roots. Try to pry off any chunks of dirt around the root system before cutting them. This will make your job easier and faster.

When you’re done digging, use a trowel to move all of the dirt away from the root ball. This will help you get a good look at what you’ve dug up.

Stump grinding

If you have a large stump in your yard, you will need to use a stump grinder to remove it. This is a specialized tool that is used for grinding down tree stumps. The stump grinder has a large blade that rotates at high speeds. It grinds away the stump until it’s nothing but dust.

Tips for using a stump grinder

Make sure the blade is in good condition and sharp. A dull blade can easily damage the stump and make the job more difficult.
Always wear protective gear when using a stump grinder, including safety goggles, ear plugs, and a dust mask.
Start grinding the stump from the top and work your way down. This will help prevent the blade from getting stuck.
Don’t force the stump grinder to go too fast or it may overheat. Keep a cool head and take your time while grinding the stump.
If the stump is too large, you may not be able to remove it with a stump grinder. In this case, you can try hiring a professional to do the job for you.

Tips for choosing the right tool

Tools with a long handle (like a pole) are easier to use than those with short handles. The more reach you have, the better chance you have of getting the roots out. Be careful not to damage your shovel as you dig up the root ball.
Choose a tool that has a secure grip and is light enough to be comfortable to use. Your hands will get tired quickly if they’re too heavy or stiff.
Be careful when using power tools, since they can easily cause serious injuries. Wear safety goggles or other eye protection when using any power tools and work in well-ventilated areas so that any fumes don’t get in your eyes or lungs.
When using a chainsaw, always make sure the chain is sharp and in good condition. Dull chains can easily kickback and cause injuries.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a chain saw to cut roots?

Yes, you can use a chain saw to cut roots. However, be careful not to damage the surrounding plants when you’re using this tool. Make sure the chain is sharp and in good condition before starting to cut. Keep a cool head and take your time while using the chain saw.

Can I use a garden hose to remove roots?

Yes, you can use a garden hose to remove roots by softening the soil before starting to dig. When you’re done digging, use a trowel to move all of the dirt away from the root ball. This will help you get a good look at what you’ve dug up.

How do you cut through roots?

When you’re cutting through roots, make sure the blade of the shovel is facing downwards so that it can easily cut through the roots. Try to pry off any chunks of dirt around the root system before cutting them. This will make your job easier and faster.

Is there an easy way to identify tree roots?

There is no easy way to identify tree roots, since they can vary in size and shape. However, if you’re trying to remove a large root system, it’s best to start at the top and work your way down. This will help prevent the blade from getting stuck.

Conclusion

There are numerous tools that can be used to remove tree roots. Be sure to choose the right tool for the job and always use caution when working with power tools. When in doubt, it’s best to hire a professional to do the job for you.