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Neighbor's Tree Roots Sprouting in Our Yard: Management Options

Neighbor's tree sends dozens of sprouts into our yard; grass browns in that area. Dug sprout revealed massive root system. Solutions short of cutting down the tree?

Root Cause

Sprouts emerge from the tree's root system, which outcompetes grass for moisture.

Options

Add soil (≤4 inches) and reseed grass or plant shade-tolerant groundcover
Mow sprouts repeatedly – depletes root energy over time
Wipe sprouts with Roundup (glyphosate) on cloth/sponge – kills sprouts without spray drift. May affect tree foliage on that side via root translocation.
Trench and install root barrier along fence – may damage tree foliage

Recommended Approach

Wipe sprouts with Roundup, add topsoil, and replant grass or install alternative groundcover.

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