Your Guide to Cutting Tree Roots

A landscape with trees is always welcome. By shading our homes, they improve air quality and appearance. However, older trees’ roots might cause problems. They might damage infrastructure, destroy foundations, and trample gardens. In certain cases, cutting the roots may be necessary. 

Assess the Situation

Before taking action and cutting tree roots, it’s crucial to assess the situation thoroughly. Understanding the why and where of root interference will guide you in making informed decisions. Here’s a deeper dive into the factors to consider:

• Determine the Cause of Interference:
• Structural Damage: Tree roots can grow extensively, sometimes exerting pressure on the foundations of buildings, causing cracks or structural instability. Check for signs of uplifted pavements, driveways, or any misalignment in your property’s structure.
• Utility Lines: Some trees have roots that grow deep and wide, potentially reaching underground utility lines such as water, sewer, and electrical cables. Check local utility maps or use utility marking services before digging.
• Landscape Disturbance: Tree roots can compete with other plants for nutrients, water, and space. This can be particularly problematic in garden beds, where roots can overshadow or choke out smaller plants.
• Safety Concerns: Overgrown roots can create tripping hazards, especially if they surface in high-traffic areas.
• Root Visibility: Roots visible above the ground are easier to assess regarding their diameter and direction. However, those below the surface may require gentle excavation to understand their size and trajectory.
• Tree Health and Age: Older trees or those already showing signs of stress or disease are more susceptible to damage when roots are cut. In such cases, considering tree removal or other solutions might be more beneficial in the long run.
• Consider the Tree Species: Some tree species have more aggressive root systems than others. Knowing the species can help gauge how likely the roots will continue growing in a problematic direction or rate.
• Environmental Impact: Removing major roots can affect the tree and the surrounding environment. The tree’s capacity to hold soil, manage water runoff, and contribute to local ecosystems could be reduced.
• Legal and Neighborhood Implications: Before cutting any roots, especially if they cross property lines, ensure you’re not violating local regulations or ordinances. It’s also a good idea to communicate with neighbours if the tree or its roots are near or crossing their property.

By thoroughly assessing the situation, you ensure the tree’s and your property’s safety and well-being. Remember, preemptive actions based on careful consideration will always yield better results than hurried decisions.

Identify the Roots

Correctly identifying which roots to cut is pivotal. The roots play different roles in a tree’s health and stability, and knowing which ones you’re dealing with can mean the difference between a thriving tree and one that’s stressed or dying. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

• Understand the Root System
• Tap Root: Some trees have a primary root, known as the tap root, which grows thicker and deeper than others. It provides the main anchor for the tree. Damage to this root can severely destabilise the tree.
• Lateral Roots: These horizontal roots spread out from the tree’s base. They are responsible for both anchoring the tree and absorbing nutrients. Their thickness can vary.
• Feeder Roots: These finer roots branch out from the lateral roots and are responsible for absorbing water and nutrients. They’re smaller and more numerous.
• Mapping the Root Spread
• Visual Inspection: Begin by checking for visible roots at the soil surface. This can give an idea of the direction in which the roots are growing.
• Gentle Excavation: For roots below the surface, gently remove the top layer of soil in the area you suspect there might be problematic roots. This will give you a clearer picture without causing unnecessary damage.
• Determine Root Vitality
• Active vs. Dormant Roots: Active roots will be firm and may have tiny white feeder roots sprouting, indicating growth. Dormant roots are those that are not currently growing but are still alive. On the other hand, dead roots will be brittle, may crumble easily, and have a decayed appearance.
• Root Depth: The deeper the root, the older and more established it is. Cutting deep roots can cause significant harm to the tree, so it’s vital to evaluate how deep the problematic root is before deciding on any action.
• Proximity to the Trunk: As a general rule, the closer a root is to the tree’s trunk, the more vital it is to the tree’s health and stability. Roots located close to the trunk, especially large ones, should ideally not be cut.
• Root Diameter: Avoid cutting roots larger than 5 cm in diameter is a good rule of thumb. These roots play a significant role in the tree’s health and stability. Consulting an arborist is strongly recommended if a larger root needs to be addressed.

You can make more informed decisions by meticulously identifying the roots and understanding their function. It’s always best to prioritise the tree’s health and stability, ensuring that any actions don’t compromise its well-being.

Tools You’ll Need

When preparing to cut tree roots, having the right tools is essential. They make the job easier and ensure that you can do it precisely, reducing the risk of harm to the tree and ensuring your safety.

A sharp pruning or root saw is often the first tool you’ll reach for. Designed specifically for cutting through wood and roots, these saws offer a combination of sharpness and control. They are especially useful for tackling thicker roots. When choosing one, ensure it has a comfortable grip and a blade length suitable for the task. A saw with a longer blade might be helpful for wider roots, while a shorter blade provides better maneuverability for roots in confined spaces.

Loppers are another essential tool, particularly for smaller roots. These long-handled pruners can easily snip through roots, making clean cuts. Their extended handles offer better leverage, allowing for easier cutting, and their design ensures that you can get close to the ground to trim roots with precision.

In many cases, the roots you’ll need to cut won’t be visible above the ground. This is where a shovel or a root digger becomes indispensable. These tools help expose the root without causing excessive damage to the surrounding area. A shovel with a sharp edge can slice through the soil, revealing the root beneath. On the other hand, a root digger, specifically designed to unearth roots, offers a narrower profile that can be particularly useful in densely planted areas or when you want to minimise disruption to the surrounding soil.

Lastly, always appreciate the importance of safety gear. Protective gloves shield your hands from potential cuts or scrapes, and safety glasses are crucial to prevent any dirt or debris from getting into your eyes, especially when you’re digging or sawing.

Cutting the Roots

Cutting tree roots is a delicate process, demanding precision, care, and respect for the living organism you’re working on. Doing it incorrectly can lead to long-term damage to the tree or even its death. Here’s a detailed walkthrough of the steps and considerations involved:

• Safety First: Before you even begin, ensure you are dressed appropriately. Wear durable gloves to protect your hands from cuts or blisters. Safety glasses are essential to shield your eyes from flying debris, dirt, or splinters that might be dislodged during cutting. If you’re working near a street or a busy area, consider wearing a high-visibility vest to ensure passersby or drivers see you. Also, ensure that the area is cordoned off or that you have someone to alert you to potential dangers like approaching children or pets.
• Exposing the Root: Begin by gently removing the soil around the root you intend to cut. You want to ensure a clear line of sight to the root, understanding its direction, thickness, and relationship to other nearby roots. Use a shovel or root digger, and remember to be gentle. Rapid or aggressive digging can inadvertently damage the root or those around it.
• Clean Cuts are Crucial: Use your pruning saw or loppers to make a clean cut once the root is exposed. A jagged or torn root is more susceptible to diseases and can spread decay to other parts of the tree. Aim to cut the root at a slight angle rather than straight across, as this can help the tree heal better and prevent water from settling on the cut surface, which could lead to rot.
• Be Mindful of the Amount: Every root you cut will impact the tree’s overall health, stability, and nutrient absorption capacity. So, limit the number of roots you remove. When working with trees of apparent size above ground, avoid removing more than 20% of the roots. This proportion may vary by tree type and health, but utilising it as a standard is good.
• Consider the Proximity: Cutting a root should be done as far from the tree stem as possible. The closer the incision is to the trunk, the more likely the tree may be damaged. Massive roots cut too close to a tree’s trunk might make it unstable and more prone to fall in high winds or severe weather.
• After the Cut: Once you’ve made your cuts, consider covering the exposed area with a layer of soil and mulch. This not only helps retain moisture but also provides some protection against potential diseases.

In all these steps, patience and respect for the tree are paramount. Each cut you make will affect the tree’s health, so always approach the task with thoughtfulness and care. If ever in doubt about whether to cut a particular root or how to do it, consulting with a certified arborist or tree care specialist is always a wise decision. They can provide expert guidance to ensure the longevity and health of your tree.

Aftercare

Aftercare, following the cutting of tree roots, is vital. This stage is not merely a concluding step; it’s the beginning of a healing process for the tree. Trees are living organisms, and any disturbance to their system requires attention to ensure they continue to thrive. Here’s a deeper exploration of the aftercare process:

• Watering Needs: Cutting roots can disrupt a tree’s ability to take up water efficiently, especially if significant roots are removed. Ensuring the tree receives adequate water is essential in the days and weeks following the procedure. Regular, deep watering helps the tree recover and promotes the growth of new roots. However, it’s crucial not to over-water. The goal is to keep the soil moist, not saturated. A good rule of thumb is to water slowly, allowing it to penetrate deep into the soil and reach the remaining roots.
• Mulching: Organic mulch around a tree’s trunk has several benefits. Mulch keeps soil wet, stabilises soil temperature, and prevents weeds from competing with trees for nutrients. Before mulching, leave room around the tree trunk. Mulch touching a tree’s trunk can produce a wet environment that attracts rot and bugs.
• Monitoring the Tree’s Health: Pay attention to the tree’s overall health in the weeks and months after cutting its roots. Signs of stress or disease, such as yellowing leaves, early leaf drop, or stunted growth, can be indicators that the tree is struggling. Regularly inspect the site of the cut roots to ensure there are no signs of rot or fungal infections. If any issues arise, consider consulting with an arborist or tree specialist for advice.
• Fertilisation: While it might be tempting to fertilise right after cutting roots to “boost” the tree, it’s often recommended to wait. The tree is already stressed, and adding fertiliser can further stress it. Once the tree shows signs of recovery and new growth, you can consider a balanced, slow-release fertiliser to support its health.
• Pruning: If the tree shows signs of severe stress after root cutting, you may need to consider light pruning to reduce its canopy. Doing so reduces the amount of foliage the tree has to support with its now-limited root system. However, it’s crucial not to over-prune, as the tree still needs leaves for photosynthesis.
• Regular Inspections: As time passes, make it a habit to regularly check the tree’s stability, especially if you’ve cut significant roots. Ensure the tree remains anchored firmly in the ground, and watch for any signs of leaning or instability, particularly after storms or heavy winds.

Caring for a tree after cutting its roots is a commitment to its well-being. With patience, attention, and timely interventions, you can support the tree’s recovery and ensure it remains a healthy, thriving part of your landscape for years to come.

Consider Professional Help

Considering professional help when dealing with tree roots is often the safest, most efficient route, especially when the situation is complex or potentially dangerous. Certified arborists or professional tree care services bring a level of expertise and experience that is unparalleled by DIY methods.

These professionals can assess the tree’s health, understand its root system’s intricacies, and predict the potential impact of cutting certain roots. They are trained to handle these situations precisely, ensuring the least harm to the tree and maintaining its structural integrity. They’re also equipped with specialised tools for the job, which might need to be more readily available to the average homeowner.

Moreover, the risk increases when roots are entangled with utility lines, or the tree is located near property structures. Professionals are versed in handling such sensitive scenarios, navigating around utility lines, and understanding the local regulations that might apply to tree cutting and root interference. They can also identify when a permit is needed for root cutting, saving homeowners from legal issues.

Additionally, arborists provide invaluable follow-up care advice or services. They can guide you on ensuring the tree’s health in the following weeks and months, advising on watering schedules, fertilisation, and signs of tree stress to watch out for. In cases where the tree doesn’t recover well or if further issues develop, having a professional already familiar with your situation makes subsequent care more straightforward.

Hiring professionals also saves money in the long run. Incorrectly cutting tree roots can lead to tree death, property damage, or personal injury, all of which come with hefty costs. Arborists or tree care services carry their insurance, providing the homeowner with an additional security layer.

Finally, there’s peace of mind when hiring a professional. Knowing that an expert is handling one of your property’s significant natural elements allows for confidence in the tree’s health and longevity. You’re not just paying for a service; you’re investing in the future well-being of your landscape, preserving the mature, majestic nature of your trees.

In Conclusion

While trees are beneficial, there are times when their roots can pose challenges. Cutting tree roots can affect the tree’s health and stability; thus, it should be done carefully. Be careful and have enough knowledge and tools before starting the assignment. When in doubt, consult an expert. Your trees and property will appreciate it.

Content Summary

• A landscape with trees is always welcome.
• However, older trees’ roots might cause problems.
• In certain cases, cutting the roots may be necessary.
• Before taking action and cutting tree roots, it’s crucial to assess the situation thoroughly.
• Understanding the why and where of root interference will guide you in making informed decisions.
• Tree roots can grow extensively, sometimes exerting pressure on the foundations of buildings, causing cracks or structural instability.
• Check for signs of uplifted pavements, driveways, or any misalignment in your property’s structure.
• Older trees or those already showing signs of stress or disease are more susceptible to damage when roots are cut.
• Some tree species have more aggressive root systems than others.
• Removing major roots can affect the tree and the surrounding environment.
• By thoroughly assessing the situation, you ensure the tree’s and your property’s safety and well-being.
• Correctly identifying which roots to cut is pivotal.
• The roots play different roles in a tree’s health and stability, and knowing which ones you’re dealing with can mean the difference between a thriving tree and one that’s stressed or dying.
• It provides the main anchor for the tree.
• Damage to this root can severely destabilise the tree.
• Begin by checking for visible roots at the soil surface.
• This can give an idea of the direction in which the roots are growing.
• Cutting deep roots can cause significant harm to the tree, so it’s vital to evaluate how deep the problematic root is before deciding on any action.
• As a general rule, the closer a root is to the tree’s trunk, the more vital it is to the tree’s health and stability.
• When preparing to cut tree roots, having the right tools is essential.
• A sharp pruning or root saw is often the first tool you’ll reach for.
• This is where a shovel or a root digger becomes indispensable.
• Lastly, always appreciate the importance of safety gear.
• Wear durable gloves to protect your hands from cuts or blisters.
• Begin by gently removing the soil around the root you intend to cut.
• Use your pruning saw or loppers to make a clean cut once the root is exposed.
• Every root you cut will impact the tree’s health, stability, and nutrient absorption capacity.
• Cutting a root should be done as far from the tree stem as possible.
• Once you’ve made your cuts, consider covering the exposed area with a layer of soil and mulch.
• In all these steps, patience and respect for the tree are paramount.
• Each cut you make will affect the tree’s health, so always approach the task with thoughtfulness and care.
• If ever in doubt about whether to cut a particular root or how to do it, consulting with a certified arborist or tree care specialist is always a wise decision.
• They can provide expert guidance to ensure the longevity and health of your tree.
• Aftercare, following the cutting of tree roots, is vital.
• This stage is not merely a concluding step; it’s the beginning of a healing process for the tree.
• Ensuring the tree receives adequate water is essential in the days and weeks following the procedure.
• Organic mulch around a tree’s trunk has several benefits.
• Before mulching, leave room around the tree trunk.
• Pay attention to the tree’s overall health weeks and months after cutting its roots.
• Regularly inspect the site of the cut roots to ensure there are no signs of rot or fungal infections.
• If any issues arise, consider consulting with an arborist or tree specialist for advice.
• While it might be tempting to fertilise right after cutting roots to “boost” the tree, it’s often recommended to wait.
• If the tree shows signs of severe stress after root cutting, you may need to consider light pruning to reduce its canopy.
• As time passes, make it a habit to regularly check the tree’s stability, especially if you’ve cut significant roots.
• Ensure the tree remains anchored firmly in the ground, and watch for any signs of leaning or instability, particularly after storms or heavy winds.
• Caring for a tree after cutting its roots is a commitment to its well-being.
• Considering professional help when dealing with tree roots is often the safest, most efficient route, especially when the situation is complex or potentially dangerous.
• These professionals can assess the tree’s health, understand its root system’s intricacies, and predict the potential impact of cutting certain roots.
• Moreover, the risk increases when roots are entangled with utility lines, or the tree is located near property structures.
• They can also identify when a permit is needed for root cutting, saving homeowners from legal issues.
• Additionally, arborists provide invaluable follow-up care advice or services.
• In cases where the tree doesn’t recover well or if further issues develop, having a professional already familiar with your situation makes subsequent care more straightforward.
• Hiring professionals also saves money in the long run.
• Arborists or tree care services carry their insurance, providing the homeowner with an additional security layer.
• Finally, there’s peace of mind when hiring a professional.
• Knowing that an expert is handling one of your property’s significant natural elements allows for confidence in the tree’s health and longevity.
• You’re not just paying for a service; you’re investing in the future well-being of your landscape, preserving the mature, majestic nature of your trees.
• Cutting tree roots can affect the tree’s health and stability; thus, it should be done carefully.
• Be careful and have enough knowledge and tools before starting the assignment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why would I need to cut tree roots?

There are several reasons someone might need to cut tree roots. Some common reasons include preventing roots from damaging foundations, driveways, or sidewalks, making way for construction or landscaping projects, managing invasive tree species, or attempting to rejuvenate a tree with girdling roots. However, it’s always essential to evaluate the necessity carefully, as cutting roots can impact a tree’s health and stability.

Can I tell whether cutting a tree root would hurt or kill it?

Root cutting can damage a tree depending on several circumstances. Removing a large root or several roots stresses or unstables the tree. Large, close-to-the-trunk roots are healthier for the tree. Avoid removing more than 20% of a tree’s visible root system. Before cutting costs, consult an expert.

Can tree roots grow back after being cut?

Tree roots can recover after being cut; however, this depends on the tree’s health, age, and species. The new growth may not match the original root’s size or orientation, and it may take time for the tree to recover and build a healthy, robust root system.

When should tree roots be cut for best results?

Tree roots should be cut during the dormant season, usually late winter or early spring when new growth has yet to commence. During this time, the tree is least active, reducing the stress and shock of root cutting. However, circumstances might require root cutting at other times, and it’s always best to take added precautions if doing so outside of the dormancy period.

How deep are tree roots typically found?

The bulk of tree roots reside in the upper 30 to 45 cm of soil, contrary to popular perception. They spread horizontally and can reach two to three times the tree canopy. However, tree, soil, and environmental factors can affect patterns.