It's Okay to Be Shady: 3 Reasons You Should Plant a Tree in Your Yard

Roots stabilize trees and help to bring nourishment to them by absorbing moisture and nutrients from the soil. They are vital to the health of the tree, but they are not always a benefit to the home and yard. Here are some tips for managing root problems and protecting the trees and surroundings.

Understand Visible Roots

Mature trees often have roots that surface naturally. Erosion around the tree could also leave the roots bare and unprotected. In many instances, the visible roots are known as feeders that grow closer to the surface seeking water and food. Exposed roots do not necessarily mean the tree is at risk for future damage.

Identify Any Concern

If erosion is the cause of root exposure, it is acceptable to add some topsoil, but do not be surprised if they appear again in a couple of years. A large, leaning tree with an extensive network of visible roots could be at risk of falling in a severe wind or rain storm. Always have these trees checked by an expert for stability.

Avoid Costly Mistakes

Most homeowners dislike the sight of tree roots jutting out from a manicured lawn. It is possible to trim the roots some without harming the tree, but many experts recommend restricting the trim to no more than 20 percent of the exposed root.

It is also advisable to only trim roots that are far away from the tree’s main trunk. A general rule to follow is measure the trunk’s base diameter. Multiply that number by three, and only begin cutting at roots that are at least that far away from the trunk.

Even a cautious trimmer could cause damage. If you trim the roots too much, the tree may not be able to get the moisture it needs, it could lose stability and it becomes more vulnerable to disease and insects. Your options are to either cut the roots and watch the tree closely for signs of wilting or to hire an arborist to tell you the best course of action.

Protect Other Features

Submerged roots do sometimes cause havoc with wells, foundations, walkways and other yard elements. Water and sewer pipes are a serious concern for homeowners experiencing invasive roots. Cutting the roots back and installing a barrier to protect against future growth could relieve the problem, but cutting the tree may be the only permanent solution.

Identify the Problem

If tree removal is the best solution, be certain the tree being cut is the one causing the problem. It is not uncommon for roots to grow as much as 200 feet out from a tree, and any mature trees in the area could be to blame. The problem may not even stem from trees in your yard; the roots may come from a plant in a neighboring property.

If excavating the area to determine where the roots originate is undesirable or not possible, you have the choice to remove the roots and monitor the surrounding trees for signs of failure. Tree services companies do offer another solution. Some arborists use a ground penetrating radar system to map out the roots without disturbing the soil.

Repair the Yard

After a tree is cut down, its roots will eventually die due to a lack of oxygen. However, some species of trees have the ability to grow new sprouts from the roots. Remove the sprouts as soon as they appear to prevent new tree growth. Depressions in the ground from decaying roots are usually minor and barely noticeable.

Trees provide so much beauty and benefit to homeowners that it is important to protect them whenever possible. When you plant new trees, be sure you know how to do so without putting the home or yard at risk. At One Tripp Tree Service, we offer expert advice on new and existing trees to help homeowners have a safe and beautiful yard.