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There are many ways to cut through roots when digging, especially if your trencher doesn’t seem to be removing the roots. First, use a shovel to expose the roots. Then, use gardening shears to clear out smaller roots or a reciprocating saw to remove larger plant roots. If you plan on keeping the plant, avoid cutting any roots over 2 inches thick.

Once you confirm a tree is dead, you should remove it. Dead trees eventually fall, and larger trees in particular can cause damage to rooftops, fencing, flowers, and other objects. As we mentioned, letting decayed wood stay in your yard also invites risks to the surrounding landscaping and vegetation.

Most chemical treatments that kill roots will also damage the grass around it—including more natural substances like Epsom salt. In this case, cutting tree roots is probably your best bet if you want to preserve the grass. Use caution before you cut or prune roots to make sure you know what you’re cutting and know the risks if you make an error. 

Yes, stump removal is worth the investment. It costs an average of $400 to remove a stump, but you will likely avoid other more expensive issues, such as termite and carpenter ant infestations, which can cost upward of $1,500 to treat professionally. If termites or ants attack the rotting stump—and they likely will—they could move to your primary structure after the stump is consumed. So, you could incur structural damage to your home as a result, which is even more costly and potentially dangerous.