How to Get Rid of Overgrown Aspen Tree Roots

Check your neighbor's yard to make sure you are not killing roots connected to her tree.

Overgrown aspen tree roots are a common problem for gardeners. These trees reproduce by growing suckers from root systems, which produce a new tree. Gardeners may see new aspen trees pop up over their yard that are caused by one tree. In addition to overgrown root systems, aspen trees easily contract pest problems and diseases. It is important for gardeners to remove their overgrown aspen tree roots from the yard before the root system interferes with utility lines, driveways and landscape plants.

Things You'll Need

• Shovel
• Pruning saw
• Herbicide
• Chainsaw

Instructions

Removing the Roots

1. Dig a hole next to a sprout or overgrown root. Cut the root with a sharp shovel or pruning saw.

2. Apply a herbicide to the wound made in the root. Use a herbicide that contains either triclopyr or glyphosate. Herbicides will cause an area of the the root system or sprout to die off.

3. Follow the same procedure for the rest of the roots in the yard. Be careful spraying roots with herbicide because the runoff may harm other plants. Pick up root debris and burn it or throw it away.

Removing the Tree and Roots

1. Cut down your aspen tree with a chainsaw. Aspen trees will continually plague lawns with overgrown roots until the main tree has been cut down. Make your first cut on the side that you want the aspen tree to fall. Go into one-quarter of the tree's diameter.

2. Make a second cut at a 45 degree downward angle that meets the notch of the first cut. The third cut should be a 45 degree upward angled cut to the notch where the first and second cuts meet. The result is a 90 degree opening.

3. Walk over to the other side of the tree. Cut just above the notch that you created on the front of the tree. Move away from the tree as it falls. Cut up the fallen tree with a chainsaw and remove.

4. Apply a herbicide that contains triclopyr or glyphosate to the trunk. Reapply again in seven to 10 days or according to the directions if there is a sign of new growth.

5. Dig up roots or sprouts that are interfering with any turf growth or trees.

Tips & Warnings

• Use herbicide on a dry, wind-free day.

• Avoid felling any tree by yourself. Have someone there for safety.

References

• University of Missouri Extension; Felling, Bucking and Limbing Branches; David E. Baker, et al.
• Utah State University Extension; Dig Deep to Remove Landscape Aspen Trees; Mike Kuhns