How To Use RootX

Download Instruction Guide (PDF)

RootX foaming tree root killer is fast and easy to apply with no special equipment required. For severely blocked pipes where mechanical root cutting is also needed, be sure to treat the pipe with RootX root killing foaming herbicide within the first hour after cutting the roots to ensure proper chemical absorption.

Each box or case of RootX jars comes with two pairs of gloves and two dust masks for use when handling the RootX chemical. Choose the application method that works best for your location.

RootX jars

RootX jars offer a convenient method for treating residential service laterals and septic systems. The cleanout is the preferred method for most residential applications because the cleanout is closest to the pipes where roots can cause problems. If there’s no cleanout at your location or your customer’s location, you can apply RootX using the toilet. To prevent foam from overflowing the toilet, you should only flush one 2-lb. jar of Root-X foaming herbicide at a time.  You can treat throught a toilet with more than 2 pounds of RootX (in order to treat more than 50 feet of 4" sewer pipe) but only apply at a rate of 2 pounds per each flush.  Repeat application of 2 pounds per flush until you have applied the correct amount of RootX for the length of pipe you are treating for tree root growth.  Please refer to our RootX Application Chart for more information.

Cleanout method

Toilet

1. Pour the RootX chemical directly from the jar into the system cleanout.
2. Pour 1 1/2 to 2 gallon of water per pound of RootX used to activate the root-killing foam.
3. The natural flow of the line carries the foam down the pipe.

Toilet method

1. Pour the RootX chemical directly from the jar into the toilet.
2. Flush the toilet to activate the root-killing foam.
3. The natural flow of the line carries the foam down the pipe.

Septic system applications

1. Pour the RootX chemical directly from the jar into the septic tank.
2. Pour 1 1/2 to 2 gallon of water per pound of RootX used to activate the root-killing foam.
3. Pour RootX into the distribution box to kill roots intruding into drain field lines.

After a residential application, you should limit water use for at least an hour, allowing time for roots to absorb the RootX chemical.

RootX boxes

RootX comes in 40-lb. boxes for treating longer lines and service laterals, as well as municipal main lines. For pipes smaller than 8 inches, use the direct pour or vacuum method. For 8-inch and larger pipes, you can also use a foam dispersal unit. With a foam dispersal unit, you can treat more than twice as much pipe using the same amount of RootX.

RootX Video