Cherry trees are some of the most popular and appealing fruit trees. Not only are cherry trees easy to grow, but they also have a unique sweetness to their fruit that make them a great addition to any yard. However, despite their many benefits and appeal, cherry trees can be quite difficult to control when their roots start to spread and cause destruction. While some people may advise to completely dig up all of the affected tree’s roots, this may not always be the best option. Instead, there are a few more efficient, quick, and painless ways to kill cherry tree roots that cause damage, without needing to dig them out.
Stop the Spread
The first step to killing cherry tree roots is to prevent them from spreading in the first place. Any branches that appear to be spreading out of the original tree root zone should be pruned and trimmed immediately. Additionally, it is important to consider the irrigation in the surrounding area. If there is any water contamination, the roots may be able to spread along the water lines. Lastly, the soil should be cultivated frequently, as this will disrupt any roots that are trying to take hold in the new area.
Root Girdling
One of the quickest and most reliable methods to kill cherry tree roots is root girdling. This process involves using a sharp tool to cut a continuous ring around the base of the root area in order to limit the cherry tree’s ability to send nutrients to the targeted area. Root girdling is a particularly effective method because the tree quickly runs out of nutrients to send to the targeted area, which then causes the targeted roots to eventually starve to death. This method is also a great way to get rid of extensive root systems without having to dig them out or use any chemical treatments.
Soil Exchange
Another great way to kill cherry tree roots is to exchange the soil in the affected area with a soil that does not contain any cherry tree species. This is a great preventative method for stopping the spread of cherry trees, as well as getting rid of existing root systems. It is important to ensure that any soil from the affected area is removed and discarded, as any remaining pieces of soil may allow the roots to reestablish themselves. Additionally, it is a good idea to add a layer of mulch on top of the exchanged soil in order to block remaining pieces of root and further prevent them from taking hold.
Chemical Treatments
While chemical treatments are not always the best solution to killing cherry tree roots, they can still be used as a last resort. There are a variety of chemicals available that can be applied to the surrounding soil or directly to the tree in order to kill off the root system. It is important to note that this type of treatment should only be used in extreme cases, as chemical treatments can often cause more damage to the surrounding environment. Additionally, due to the toxicity of these chemicals, it is important to follow all safety precautions when using any type of chemical treatment.
Fungicides and Insecticides
In addition to chemical treatments, fungicides and insecticides can also be applied to the soil in order to stop the spread of cherry tree roots. Fungicides kill off any fungus in the soil surrounding the tree, while insecticides can help to prevent the spread of insects that may be damaging the roots. While fungicides and insecticides can be effective at stopping the spread of cherry tree roots, it is important to remember that these treatments will only work to limit the spread of the problem, not totally eliminate it.
Herbicides
Finally, herbicides may also be used to kill cherry tree roots. Herbicides are chemicals that are specifically designed to target only the unwanted plant species, while leaving the desired plant species unharmed. While herbicides are usually considered to be safe, it is still important to use them sparingly and follow all safety precautions. Additionally, this method may not always be the most effective, as it can be difficult to target specific root systems with a chemical.
Covering With Plastic
Covering the affected area with a plastic sheet is another way to kill cherry tree roots. The plastic sheet will block out all light, which will stop the root from receiving any sunlight that it needs. This can be especially effective when combined with other methods such as root girdling. It is important to ensure the plastic sheet is lowered gently in order to avoid the risk of damaging any of the surrounding roots.
Cutting
Cutting can also be used as a method to kill cherry tree roots. When attempting this method, it is important to ensure that the cut is made just below the soil level. Any cutting above the soil level may leave pieces of root sticking out of the ground that may be able to regrow. Additionally, when cutting, it is important to use a sharp and clean tool in order to avoid risk of harming the surrounding root systems.
Mulching
Mulching is another excellent way to inhibit the growth and spread of cherry tree roots. Mulch is a protective covering that is applied to an area of soil in order to protect and insulate the roots from environmental damage as well as from any potential weed growth. Additionally, mulch can also help retain moisture in the soil, which is beneficial for any existing roots as well as for the new roots that may be growing in the same area.
Tree Removal
As a final option, it may be necessary to remove the entire tree in order to stop the spread of cherry tree roots. This method is usually only necessary when the cherry tree roots are extensive, and when alternative methods do not seem to be working. It is important to note that the tree should be removed in a safe and controlled manner in order to avoid damage to the surrounding environment and landscaping.
Protective Barriers
Lastly, a protective barrier may also be used to prevent cherry tree roots from spreading. A protective barrier helps by creating a physical barrier between the roots of the tree and surrounding area, which can help to stop any potential root spread. Additionally, a layer of rocks or stones can also be added to the barrier in order to further inhibit the growth of cherry tree roots.
Culture Shock
Culture shock is another excellent preventative method for stopping the spread of cherry tree roots. This involves cutting the cherry tree roots and planting vegetables, fruits and flowers around the tree. This can help create a “culture shock” environment, which will discourage the tree’s roots from spreading into the surrounding area. It is important to note, however, that this technique will only be effective when there are other plants that are competing with the cherry tree for soil nutrients. Additionally, since this technique only works as a preventative measure, it should not be relied on when trying to kill existing cherry tree roots.
Amending The Soil
Amending the soil is another great way to prevent cherry tree roots from spreading. By mixing in compost, manure and other organic materials into the soil, it is possible to create an environment that is unfavorable for cherry tree root spread. Additionally, adding amendments such as lime and fertilizer can also help to reduce the impact of existing roots. It is important to note, however, that amending the soil will not kill off existing cherry tree root systems, but it can help to make the environment less ideal for roots to spread.
Root Pruning
Root pruning is another great way to stop the spread of cherry tree roots. This involves trimming the roots of the tree in order to restrict the spread of the root system. Root pruning should be done with care, as improper technique may damage the tree’s root structure and reduce its long-term health. Additionally, it is important to note that root pruning is only effective against small root systems, and may not be successful in stopping the spread of more extensive root systems.
Careful Watering
Last but not least, careful watering can also be used to stop the spread of cherry tree roots. By reducing the amount of water that is available to the tree, it is possible to limit the spread of the root system. Additionally, it is important to note that it is best to water just enough to keep the tree healthy, as over-watering may cause the roots to branch out in search of additional moisture.
