Small Cedar Removal: Pulling vs. Cutting, Root Decay Timeline, and Acceleration

Root System: Shallow, Spreading

Cedars (junipers) lack a dominant taproot. Roots spread 1.5× canopy width, mostly in top 12–18″.

Removal Methods

• Few trees (4–5 ft): Trench 12″ deep, 12″ from trunk → pull with truck/chain.
• Many trees: Cut at ground level. Cedars DON'T resprout. Stumps rot in place.

Root Decay Timeline

• Southern US: 2 years.
• Western US: 5–10 years (drier, cooler).
• Cedar heartwood = naturally durable = slower.

Accelerating Decay (If Needed)

1. Cut stump low, cover with sod, keep moist.
2. Drill 1″ holes vertically.
3. Year 1: High-nitrogen fertilizer in holes.
4. Year 2+: Granulated sugar in holes (carbon for fungi).

Chemical Products

Potassium nitrate (stump remover) works slowly. No instant solutions. Grinding is faster if stumps are obtrusive.