I hear you on the chemicals—sometimes it feels like you’re just pouring money down the drain (literally) and hoping for the best. I’ve had roots pop back up a year after I thought I’d cleared them, like some kind of horror movie sequel. Ever tried one of those root saws or augers? I’m curious if anyone’s had better luck with those, or if it’s just more sweat for the same result.
I’ve had roots pop back up a year after I thought I’d cleared them, like some kind of horror movie sequel.
Can totally relate to the “horror movie sequel” vibe—roots are like the villain that just won’t stay down. Chemicals felt like flushing cash and hope at the same time for me too.
Tried a manual auger last summer (the kind you have to crank yourself). Here’s how it went:
Step 1: Realize you’re not as young or limber as you thought.
Step 2: Crank until your arms feel like noodles.
Step 3: Hit a root, cuss, and keep cranking.
Step 4: Pull out what looks like half a tree.
Step 5: Repeat every six months because, plot twist, they come back.
Honestly, it *does* work better than chemicals if you’re willing to sweat for it. The auger chews through smaller roots pretty well, but if you hit a big one, expect a workout. Haven’t tried a root saw yet—seems like even more effort, but maybe less mess? Either way, nothing’s truly permanent unless you want to dig up your whole yard (not happening on my budget).
Bottom line: augers are good for a quick fix and some free exercise. Just don’t toss your gloves—those roots love an encore.
Step 3: Hit a root, cuss, and keep cranking.
That’s the universal auger experience right there. I’ve found the manual auger works for most smaller roots, but once you hit anything thicker than your thumb, it’s a real grind. Ever tried a reciprocating saw with a long blade? It’s messier but can save your arms if you’re dealing with bigger stuff. Chemicals are hit or miss—sometimes they just slow things down instead of stopping them. Curious if anyone’s had luck with root barriers after clearing things out? I’ve seen mixed results, but maybe I’m missing something.
Chemicals are hit or miss—sometimes they just slow things down instead of stopping them.
Yeah, I’ve had the same experience. Honestly, I’m not a fan of dumping chemicals in the yard anyway—never quite trust what they’ll do to the soil long-term.
- Manual auger: fine for small stuff, like you said.
- Recip saw: works, but it’s loud and can get sketchy if you’re not careful.
- Root barriers: mixed bag. I tried bamboo panels once—roots still found a way around after a couple years.
Has anyone tried those newer recycled plastic barriers? Wondering if they hold up better against aggressive roots or just end up as more landfill...
roots still found a way around after a couple years.
That’s the story of my life—roots are like little Houdinis. I tried those recycled plastic barriers last year, and so far, they’re holding up, but I half-expect to find roots waving at me on the other side someday. At least they’re easier to install than digging a moat...
