Abstract: A root cutting cable laying plow adapted for attachment to a tractor is provided. The plow includes a shank having a longitudinal blade formed in the leading edge of a lower portion of the shank and having a flat transverse cutting surface above the blade. A cutter having a sharpened lower end is movable with respect to the shank into engagement with the flat cutting surface by a double acting hydraulic cylinder. The cutter and the cylinder rod move between parallel mounting flanges of the tractor, allowing the hydraulic cylinder itself to be attached to the shank above the mounting flanges.