How To Kill Tree Roots After A Tree Removal

We don’t want to be the bearers of bad news, but removing a tree trunk does not immediately get rid of its roots. Tree roots can become a major nuisance if they continue growing after you’ve removed the tree, from forcing toward and into sewer systems to cracking the foundation of your house and damaging your driveway.



Did you know that tree roots can spread up to 3 times the radius of their canopy? Maybe even more in the right conditions? So, if you want to know more about tree root killer products, both natural and chemical, this guide is perfect for you. 

Natural vs chemical products

Tree root killers use chemicals like copper sulphate and a herbicide called dichlobenil to help empty sewer lines and drainpipes of tree roots. The downside to using chemicals is that they are toxic, so natural root killer products like a mixture of baking soda, vinegar, salt, and boiling water can be flushed inside the lowest toilet in your house. Natural products usually take longer for the tree roots to get washed away, so you’ll have to repeat this a few times for it to work. 

Using bleach to kill tree roots

Yes, you can kill tree roots with bleach. First, use a drill to cut into the tree roots that you don’t want. Then, use a paintbrush to spread bleach over the holes on the roots.

The roots should die fairly quickly. If they don’t, you can simply repeat this method several times.

Using Epsom salts to kill tree roots

Even though Epsom salts will take longer than a quick and easy chemical herbicide, they work by depriving the roots of water. Don't worry, we won’t go into the science of it all!


So, all you need to do is drill a few 3-4 inch holes across the root you want to get rid of. Make sure you don’t fill them too much as the Epsom salt solution is toxic to surrounding plant life. To completely get rid of the roots, you’ll need to repeat this process numerous times over a few months. Rest assured, eventually, the Epson salt will kill the tree roots. 

Using Roundup to kill tree roots

 Roundup concentrate will definitely kill your tree roots. It contains the active ingredient glyphosate, which is toxic to humans, so do make sure you’re extremely safe. You’ll need to use a paintbrush to spread the Roundup solution over the root area. Another method is to drill holes and then brush Roundup into the root you want to kill. Remember to immediately clean your tools using hot water after they’ve been exposed to the Roundup mixture. The main downside of using Roundup is that it will prevent plant life from growing in that area.

Remember to work safely and cautiously

When killing tree roots, always remember to use caution and keep chemical tree root killer products out of reach of children and pets.

If you’d like some tailored advice about killing your tree roots or you'd like us to take care of the full tree removal for you, feel free to contact our professional and friendly team at Tallow Tree Services in the Northern Rivers region on 02 6687 2750, or, alternatively, send us an email.