Tree roots in the ground are usually cut with a reciprocating saw fitted with a pruning or demolition blade, a stump grinder for larger roots, or by carefully digging and cutting them with a root saw or mattock. A pointed shovel can help expose the root first, but it is not the best tool for clean cuts.

Practical options

  • Reciprocating saw: Good for individual roots once they’re exposed.
  • Stump grinder: Best for large roots and stump-related work near the surface.
  • Root saw or hand saw: Useful for smaller roots where precision matters.
  • Mattock or trenching tool: Helps break soil and expose roots before cutting.

Important caution

Cutting roots from a living tree can weaken or destabilize it, and may even kill the tree if too much is removed. If the roots are near utilities, foundations, or a large tree, it is safer to get an arborist or utility locator involved first.

Best rule of thumb

For a small root, expose it and cut it cleanly with a pruning blade or root saw; for bigger roots, use a grinder or professional help. If the goal is to remove a tree entirely, the safest approach is usually stump removal rather than chopping random roots in the ground.