Root removal is the extraction of tree roots from their surrounding soil, often to prevent interference with underground service and building foundations. To prevent damage to ground based structures (i.e. a driveway, patio, sewer or foundations), the unwanted tree root can be removed using two common methods: Root / Stump Grinding and Mechanical Root Digging.

Stump / Root Grinding – Also used for tree stump removal, this method involves the use of a mechanical grinder known as a “Stump Grinding Machine”.  By chipping away at the tree roots, the stump grinder gradually wears away any unwanted growth, leaving only chippings. Root Grinding is an extremely effective method of root removal and will kill roots, it also minimises any damage to nearby tree and plant vegetation. The waste chippings easily degrade and can be used as mulch, minimising removal costs.

When used for removing tree stumps, the machine carves into the unwanted stump and grinds out the tree’s main root plate.  As with root grinding, this removal process leaves sawdust/wood chippings which easily rot and degrade, therefore saving you money on waste removal costs.

Mechanical Root Digging – An alternative to root or stump grinding, root digging involves the use of a mechanical digger to remove unwanted root growth. This digger is used to excavate the tree roots from the surrounding soil, exposing the root ball and lateral tree roots. This enables us to kill roots by removal and disposure.

In addition to these, there is a third method: the use of root poison. Unlike other methods, the use of tree root poison will eliminate any option of replanting the tree. It is also not as effective as “Stump/Root Grinding” or “Mechanical Root Digging” and may damage surrounding vegetation.

Poisoning Roots – Tree root poison is an alternative method to kill unwanted tree roots.  As with other methods such as “Stump/Root Grinding” or “Mechanical Root Digging” it can be used to kill tree roots, but unlike alternative methods it eliminates the option of removal and replanting. Unfortunately, root poison may not always work as effectively as other tree root removing methods as some trees are very vigorous. Applying root poison to old tree stumps is sometimes useless.

For the best results, root poison should be used when tree or shrub is freshly cut and the poison applied straight away. Professional tree surgeons use a chainsaw to create a groove in the tree stump in an appropriate part of the living tissue, to allow the poison to be taken down to kill the roots most effectively.

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Douglas Fir Tree Care suggests that when dealing with heavy machinery and dangerous poisons that you always hire a specialist tree removal surgeon.

If you would like a free quotation for any of the services mentioned on this page then please do not hesitate to CONTACT US.

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