Hi Sheree,

Thank you for contacting the helpline. I think what you are seeing on your tree roots is a burl. These can form on tree trunks and roots. Typically, they are not harmful to the tree and are usually a response to an environmental injury such as a pruning cut, disease, or insect damage. When root surfacing occurs, lawnmowers are a common cause for damage or trauma to the tree. Here's some more information on why roots can become exposed:

root surfacing

If you are concerned about the tree leaning or falling, it would be a good idea to have an arborist come out and take a look. They will assess the health of the tree and give you recommendations. Here's a link that can be helpful in finding one near you:

Find an Arborist

I hope this helps!