Invasive Root Control Tips: How to Stop Tree Root Growth

Trees can be a beautiful touch in your backyard, but unfortunately, their roots can wreak havoc underground. As tree roots spread, they're often drawn to the moisture inside sewer lines. Left unchecked, they can break through sewer lines, crack foundations, and overtake gardens.

Understanding how to stop tree root growth can help you prevent expensive plumbing repairs and structural damage. Learn more about the best ways to manage invasive roots and keep them from becoming a costly problem.

How Do Invasive Roots Become a Problem?

Tree roots are naturally attracted to moisture, which means they often find their way to water sources like underground pipes and sewer lines. While this is part of a tree’s survival mechanism, it can lead to serious property damage.

These invasive roots can cause a number of problems, such as:

• Cracked or blocked sewer lines: Roots enter small pipe cracks and expand, causing blockages.
• Foundation damage: Growing roots exert pressure on concrete slabs, leading to fractures.
• Landscape disruption: Invasive roots can overtake lawns, driveways, and gardens.

Certain tree species have more aggressive root spread than others. Trees with invasive roots include willows, poplars, and maples. On the other hand, dogwoods and Japanese maples have less intrusive root systems.

How to Stop Tree Root Growth: 3 Effective Methods 

If you want to prevent root-related damage, there are several ways to control their spread. Here’s how to stop tree roots from growing in your yard.

1. Physical Barriers to Prevent Root Spread

Root barriers redirect growth away from pipes, foundations, and other sensitive areas. They're a long-term solution to your root problem and one of the best ways to keep roots away from your septic tank.

Here are the main steps to install a root barrier:

1. Choose a strong material such as metal, plastic, or fabric barriers.
2. Dig a trench at least 24–36 inches deep around the protected area.
3. Position the barrier vertically to block root movement.
4. Extend the barrier several feet past the anticipated root growth zone.

2. Chemical Root Treatments

For an alternative approach, chemical root treatments can slow or stop growth without harming the entire tree. Two of the safest chemical options are copper sulfate and foaming root killers.

Copper sulfate is strong enough to dissolve roots that have already made their way inside pipes. Foaming root killers, on the other hand, expand inside of a pipe, suffocating roots and preventing them from growing again.

Both options are safe and don't harm the tree when used appropriately.

When applying either, keep these tips in mind:

• Use chemical treatments sparingly to avoid killing the tree.
• Apply treatments directly into sewer cleanouts for best results.
• Always follow local regulations when using chemical root killers near water systems.

3. Strategic Tree Selection and Placement

The best way to prevent root problems is by selecting trees with non-invasive roots and planting them wisely.

Trees without invasive roots include:

• Eastern Redbud
• Crape Myrtle
• Japanese Maple
• Dogwood

When planting any tree, make sure to place it at least 10 to 20 feet from sewer lines. Also, avoid planting trees near your driveway or other underground utilities.

Root Prevention: How to Stop Tree Roots from Growing Back

Removing a tree or cutting visible roots isn’t always enough. Some trees will continue regenerating, leading to recurring issues. Here are some strategies to stop tree roots from growing back:

• Sever large roots: If cutting, make clean cuts and apply herbicides to the exposed ends.
• Modify the soil: Altering soil conditions (such as reducing water availability) can discourage aggressive growth.
• Regularly maintain the roots: Inspecting and trimming roots periodically can prevent regrowth.

If you’ve noticed root infiltration in your plumbing, check out this root infiltration infographic for more insights.

How to Get Rid of Roots in Sewer Lines Without Killing Trees

Want to kill roots in your sewer line without harming the tree? Don't worry — that's more than possible with the right technique. Here's how to get rid of roots without any unintended casualties:

• Hydro jetting: Uses high-pressure water to clear roots from pipes.
• Mechanical root cutting: A plumber can use a rotating blade to trim roots inside the pipe.
• Foaming root killers: Prevent future regrowth without damaging the tree.

For severe cases, trenchless pipe repair may be the best option. This technique allows for pipe restoration without extensive excavation. Find out more about why digging up your yard may not be necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tree Roots and Plumbing

Are Fig Roots Invasive?

Yes, fig tree roots can be highly invasive. They grow aggressively toward moisture sources and can easily damage underground pipes and foundations.

Do Maple Trees Have Invasive Roots?

Some maple species, including silver and Norway maples, have invasive roots. However, others, like Japanese maples, have less aggressive root systems, making them a better choice for residential landscaping.

How Do I Kill the Roots of a Tree Safely?

If you want to kill the roots of a tree completely, use a targeted herbicide like glyphosate or triclopyr. When you cut the tree down, cover the stump with a tarp to limit sunlight exposure.

When to Call a Professional for Root Control

If you’re dealing with persistent invasive roots, it may be time to consult a professional. But how do you know for sure? If you're regularly suffering from sewer backups or slow draining, your sewer pipes likely need a pro's assistance. Also, if you see cracks in your foundation or tree roots throughout your property, there's a good chance a plumber can help as well.

A professional plumber can use video camera inspections to pinpoint root blockages and recommend the best solution. And if you do have to dig in your yard, they can guide you through the process of calling 811 first.

Ready to get started? Schedule your appointment with a local Roto-Rooter plumber today.