How to Remove Cherry Tree Roots
- 1). Dig out the area around the cherry tree roots to expose as much of the surface of the roots as possible. Exposing the roots makes them easier to remove, and also helps you know how much work you have to do.
- 2). Break into the bark on the roots with a sharp shovel or spade. Make multiple cuts all along the length of the roots to expose the inner sensitive tissue.
- 3). Spray the root system with glyphosate or a similar tree-killing herbicide. Coat all of the surfaces of all of the roots with this herbicide; it will flow into the open wounds you created on the roots to eat away at the healthy tissue, essentially killing the roots.
- 4). Cover the root system with a black plastic tarp to prevent the roots from receiving any water. Weigh down the edges of the tarp with bricks or stones to prevent it from blowing away. This will ensure that the rain doesn't wash away the poison.
- 5). Repeat herbicide application after seven days. When you do so, inspect the roots and use your sharp spade or shovel to remove any dead areas that have shriveled up or detached from the ground.
- 6). Remove the tree roots as they gradually die by digging them up and cutting them out. Repeat spraying and cutting away the roots until you have removed them all.
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