The black locust is a popular garden tree, which is not surprising given its appearance. However, the so-called false acacia changes the substrate in the long term and not only makes life difficult for other plants in this way. Above all, the robinia tends to develop strong roots, which can be difficult to contain. The offshoots also appear involuntarily in undesirable places. You can find out in this article which methods are useful for inhibiting the spread of black locust.
How can I stop the root spread of a locust tree?
To inhibit the spread of black locust through root runners, trace the runner to the trunk, expose it, carefully remove the root and place a wire mesh around the trunk. Alternatively, you can keep the robinia in a pot as a bonsai.
Questionable measures
The Ringling
When ringing, you remove the bark around the trunk of the robinia so that it dies the following year. However, it must be clear to you that you are causing serious injuries to the tree. Furthermore, this method is not always successful. If you still decide to take this measure, you should be careful to avoid contact with the skin due to the strong toxicity of the bark.
Use of herbicides
In the USA, toxins that kill the tree are common practice. In this country, you should consider whether you are prepared to take the risk of endangering the environment. Be sure to find out from the responsible office whether the herbicide of your choice is even permitted.
Tips for removing roots
No radical cut
A plant is always concerned with balancing the proportions of above- and below-ground growth. If you cut back the branches and twigs more, the robinia will respond by producing even more roots.
Remove root runners
- trace the growth of a runner back to the trunk of the black locust tree
- expose the entire foothill
- be careful not to injure the root so that the runner formation does not increase
- dig up the root completely
- dispose of the root in the compost
- A wire mesh that you place in the ground around the trunk can help to prevent the robinia from sprouting again quickly
Keeping robinia as a bonsai
How about not planting your robinia in the ground where it forms lots of runners, but instead choosing to keep it in a container. By constantly repotting and simultaneously pruning the roots, the formation of runners remains comparatively low.
