How to Remove Shrub Roots

Following the removal of the aboveground portion of an unwanted shrub, a stump and roots remain. These can present problems as a tripping hazard, for their ability to re-sprout, as is the case with many species, and for the caved-in or uneven ground that can result as large shrub roots decompose. Mechanical removal of shrub roots is easiest when the ground around the roots is moist or loose and the shrub is fairly small. Where a shrub's root system is extensive or it is a species that tends to re-sprout vigorously, chemical treatment is generally warranted.

  1. 1.

    Water the area around the shrub roots thoroughly and deeply if the ground is not already moist. Roots are easier to remove completely when the soil is moist and loose.

  2. 2.

    Pull up the roots of small shrubs by hand, if possible. If the shrub is too large to pull by hand but has a stem diameter under 2 to 3 inches, use a root jack or similar tool, placing the "jaws" of the tool around the remaining shrub stem and using the leverage provided by the tool's handle. If you removed too much of the aboveground stem for you to hold onto or grasp with a tool, digging may be the most feasible mechanical removal option. Use a digging fork or shovel to remove as much of the root system as possible.

  3. 3.

    Gather and destroy or dispose of as much of the shrub's root system as possible, as some shrubs can re-establish from small root segments.

  4. 4.

    Brush a nonselective herbicide such as glyphosate onto the freshly cut shrub stump surface. If you cut the aboveground portion of the shrub off earlier and new sprouts emerged, spray the foliage on the new sprouts completely, though not to the point of runoff, with a nonselective herbicide.

  5. 5.

    Monitor the area of shrub root removal regularly for a few years and pull or dig up or cut off any sprouts as soon as they emerge.