Knowledgebase
Cutting tree roots #305897
Asked March 09, 2016, 2:49 PM EST
I have a yard where the Cottonwood tree roots from about 6 trees have infiltrated the lawn. The roots have ruined the lawn and it is completely uneven. Basically I need to know about how long it would take for roots to show up in the lawn again if:
1) Trees left in place and roots cut out
2) Trees left in place, roots cut out and a root barrier installed along hillside rock edge
3) How long would it take for the Cottonwood trees to show signs of stress or even death if the roots and burls are cut out of the lawn and then resoded?
The roots being cut would only be on one side of the tree. I’ve attached some photos for you to understand my issue better.
Thanks
Tanja
Pitkin County Colorado
Expert Response
I hope you haven't cut the tree roots yet! Unless, that is if you don't want the tree anymore, if that is the case, I suggest removing the top first and not starting with the roots. Damage to the roots, could severely damage the trees ability to with stand wind and weather. This kind of damage could cause the tree to fall over in high wind scenarios. Below is a section detailing the importance of roots and especially the root plate that secures the tree in place.
The root plate or zone of rapid taper is the primary structural roots extending out from the trunk. Roots branch readily, tapering in diameter. It is a continuation of the pipeline carrying water and nutrients from the absorbing and transport roots into the tree trunk.
The root plate is the tree’s primary support in winds up to 40 mph. Thus avoid routine digging or otherwise disturbing the soil and roots in the root plate area. Construction and hardscape features should not encroach into the root plate! When the tree fails by tipping over, often exposing the root plate, it is failure at the edge of the root plate.
For more information please see this publication.
http://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/yard-garden/healthy-roots-and-healthy-trees-2-926/
Other alternatives would be to create a mulch ring around the tree roots instead of trying to cut them out, you could provide better moisture year round and also help to promote the oxygen in the soil by using a mulch covering.
Thanks,
Jeff
