If you still have the tree stump and roots of an old walnut in the garden and want to get rid of the remains, you will have to deal with a lot. Especially with a taproot, it is a difficult undertaking to remove the root system. But with our practical tips you can do it!
How to effectively remove walnut tree roots?
Walnut tree roots can be removed by exposing and milling or excavating and sawing. Use a mini excavator, chainsaw, spade or ax to effectively chop up the root system and pull it out of the ground. Expert guidance and protective equipment are essential.
Removing the roots of the walnut - the options
First you have to remove all above-ground parts of the tree.
You have two options to remove the roots:
- You hire a specialist company.
- You lend a hand yourself.
Note: Roots of the walnut tree that are still present can sprout again even after years. If you want to prevent this, you have to remove the root network - so you can't just leave it in place.
With regard to the specific procedure, the following methods are possible:
- Exposing and milling
- Excavators and saws
Exposing and milling
You can borrow suitable tools for milling from a well-stocked hardware store.
- Exposure the roots using a spade or mini excavator.
- Remove larger stones in the immediate vicinity. These could damage the cutting mechanism of the rootstock cutter.
- Now remove the tree roots piece by piece with the milling machine.
Note: This variant is laborious but effective.
Excavators and saws
Here, too, you can often find the tools you need for loan at hardware stores or specialist businesses. You will need a mini excavator, a chainsaw and a spade (or axe).
- Expose the main root trunk of the walnut with the mini excavator.
- Divide the tree roots into smaller and larger parts. Use the chainsaw for this purpose.
- Pull the heavy pieces of roots out of the ground using the mini excavator. Proceed with caution. If the root system is still firmly attached to the soil, difficulties may arise when excavating if used improperly.
- Smaller root suckers can be chopped up with a spade or an axe.
General instructions for removing walnut tree roots
- If you are still inexperienced in using the tools mentioned, you MUST seek instruction from a specialist in advance.
- If there is great uncertainty or intensive measures, it is recommended to delegate the task entirely to a specialist.
- If you lend a hand, you will need protective clothing including safety glasses and safety shoes.
- Have one or two people help you (or at least supervise you – in case of emergency).
- Prepare the site adequately by moving plants from the area and staking out the work area.
- Be sure to avoid using explosives and the like! Aside from being extremely dangerous, these methods hardly work.
- Observe the statutory rest times, especially when handling heavy, loud equipment (lunchtime and weekends are taboo).
