Stopping Neighbor's Sweetgum Roots from Invading Your Yard

Targeted Root Barrier via Herbicide

Sweetgum roots crossing a property line, breaking pipes, and creating tripping hazards can be controlled locally.

Procedure

1. Expose the invading roots at the property line.
2. Cut them cleanly.
3. Immediately paint the cut ends with undiluted glyphosate (Roundup) using a brush.

Outcome

• Herbicide moves into the adjacent root network, killing roots on your side.
• The parent tree may show minor foliage stress but generally survives.
• Once dead, roots can be dug out if desired.

Caution

Avoid overspray. This is a property-line treatment; communicate with the neighbor if possible.