If you’re a homeowner in New Haven, you’ve likely faced the challenge of dealing with tree roots invading your lawn. These roots can damage your yard, make mowing difficult, and disrupt the overall appearance of your property.
At Madecol Tree Service LLC, we understand how frustrating this can be — and we’re here to help. Let’s explore why tree roots become a problem, how to remove them safely, and what you can do to prevent them from returning.
Understanding the Problem with Tree Roots
Tree roots in New Haven spread wide underground in search of nutrients and water. While this is healthy for the tree, it can cause several issues for homeowners in New Haven — especially when roots reach your lawn, sidewalks, or driveways.
Why Tree Roots Need Attention
- Damage to Lawn Equipment: Exposed roots can quickly wear down or damage lawnmower blades.
- Uneven Lawns: Roots pushing up through the surface make your lawn bumpy and unattractive.
- Safety Hazards: Protruding roots can create tripping hazards for children, pets, and the elderly.
- Damage to Structures: Overgrown roots can disturb foundations, driveways, or underground pipes.
Assessing the Situation
Before you start cutting or digging, it’s important to evaluate the extent of the problem.
What to Look For
- Visible Roots: Roots breaking through the surface of your lawn.
- Surface Disturbance: Uneven or raised patches in your yard.
- Tree Health: Removing too many roots too close to the trunk can harm or destabilize the tree.
When in doubt, it’s best to have a certified arborist from Madecol Tree Service LLC inspect the situation to ensure safe removal without endangering the tree’s structure or your property.
Effective Methods to Remove Tree Roots
There are a few different ways to remove unwanted roots — depending on their size, depth, and proximity to the tree.
Manual Removal (Best for Small Roots)
Tools Needed: Shovel, pruning saw, or root saw
Steps:
- Dig carefully around the exposed root to uncover it fully.
- Use a saw to cut the root as close to the tree base as safely possible.
- Remove the cut section and refill the soil.
This approach is ideal for smaller roots or surface-level growth that’s easy to access.
Chemical Removal (Best for Large Root Networks)
For deeper or more extensive root systems, chemical treatment may be more effective.
How to Apply:
- Choose a root-specific herbicide designed for trees.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper dilution and safety.
- Apply it directly to the roots and surrounding soil.
This process can take a few weeks but helps stop regrowth and decay the unwanted roots naturally.
Mechanical Removal (For Severe Root Problems)
When roots are too large or deeply embedded, mechanical removal is the safest and fastest option.
Tools Used: Stump grinder or mini-excavator (backhoe)
Our Madecol team uses specialized machinery to grind or excavate roots efficiently — without harming surrounding trees or landscaping.
Preventing Future Root Problems
Once roots have been removed, the next step is prevention.
Regular Tree Maintenance
- Mulching: Add mulch around the base of your trees to encourage deeper root growth.
- Proper Irrigation: Water trees deeply but infrequently to train roots to grow downward.
- Regular Inspections: Schedule annual trimming and root assessments with a professional.
Install Root Barriers
Root barriers are physical barriers made of durable plastic or metal that redirect roots away from lawns, driveways, and foundations.
Installation Tip:
Dig a trench around the affected area and install the barrier vertically, making sure it’s deep enough to block future root growth.
When to Call a Professional
Sometimes, removing tree roots is not a DIY project — especially if:
- The tree is large or mature, with extensive underground roots.
- Roots are close to your home, driveway, or utility lines.
- The root system is intertwined with other plants or trees.
In these cases, call Madecol Tree Service LLC. Our trained arborists use safe, industry-approved techniques to protect both your property and your trees.
Why New Haven Homeowners Trust Madecol Tree Service LLC
- Licensed, insured, and experienced local team
- Safe root removal using professional-grade tools
- Knowledge of Connecticut’s soil and tree species
- Affordable pricing with free on-site estimates
- 24/7 emergency service for storm or damage situations
Conclusion
Dealing with tree roots in your lawn doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right approach — and professional help when needed — you can restore your lawn’s beauty, protect your property, and keep your trees healthy.
If you’re in New Haven, CT, and struggling with exposed or invasive tree roots, contact Madecol Tree Service LLC today.
Call us today for a free inspection and root removal estimate!
We’ll help you reclaim your yard and prevent future root problems the safe, effective way.