What Can I do About Tree Roots After Removing a Tree?

You’ve had a tree removed; what to do with the root system? Removing tree roots from your lawn is a frequently asked question Mike Burge of Arbor Man gets regarding tree removal in Edmonton. They have a professional tree removal service that regularly takes care of tree roots.

Are you interested in Stump Removal? Check out our article on Stump Removal.

 

Assess the type of tree

There are different species of trees whose roots will behave differently after removing the trunk.

1- Non-aggressive roots do not produce root sprouts. These types of trees can decay naturally after removing the stump.
2- Aggressive root sprouts. These trees have aggressive sprouts that will grow even after cutting down the tree. The roots store energy from when the tree was alive and try to grow a new tree. These new offshoots are called suckers.

• Examples of aggressive root species.
• Cottonwoods
• Chokecherry
• Poplar
• Willow

The tree roots’ type is the basis for choosing each root removal option.

 

Stump Grinding, Stump Removal, Potassium Nitrate Stump Removal or Natural Decay?

Stump Grinding

Stump removal removes the stump and any primary roots connected to the trunk. It is a labour-intensive method that takes care of non-aggressive root species and even deals with aggressive root species when combined with cultural or chemical controls.

Advantages

• The roots of the tree, as well as the stump, are entirely removed from the property.
• It is easier to replant in the area if that is your goal
• No roots to trip on

Disadvantages

• It takes more time than stump grinding
• Costly
• Large hole in the ground where the tree was
• Not as environmentally friendly

 

Potassium Nitrate Stump Removal

By drilling deep holes in the stump and then putting Potassium Nitrate into the holes, your tree will decay much more quickly than leaving it. In about 4-6 weeks, the stump will become very spongy, and you can easily remove it with an axe.

Advantages

• Inexpensive
• It does not require any machinery
• Environmentally friendly

Disadvantages

• The root system remains in the ground
• It takes 4-6 weeks
• It doesn’t work on newly felled trees
• Root sprouting

 

Natural Decay

Leaving your stump and root system in the ground will eventually decay over many years. Of course, it is the easiest and least costly method.

Advantages

• Free
• Environmentally friendly
• Low effort

Disadvantages

• 3-10 years average decay time for the stump and majority of roots
• Hazardous
• Cannot replant in the same area
• High chance of suckers or sprouts

The easiest, safest, and quickest way to remove tree roots or stumps is to contact professionals.

Call Mike at Arbor Man Tree Care for professional service today! 780-485-9663