Trees are true living jewels in any green space.. Not only do they beautify the environment and provide shade, but they also sustain biodiversity, providing shelter and food for a multitude of species of fauna and flora. However, the majesty of trees can become a problem if their root development is not properly managed, especially in private gardens or urbanized areas.
Why is it important to know the roots of trees?
The root system of each tree varies significantly depending on the species, soil type, humidity, and other environmental factors. In general, the roots of most trees develop between 5 and 60 cm deep.. However, many roots can spread 2 or 3 times the diameter of the cup and even more so in dry conditions, reaching far from the trunk's original location. To better understand how to prevent damage to your property, we recommend consulting what to do with tree roots.
This expansion can cause damage to nearby infrastructure Such as pipes, swimming pools, concrete floors, walls, and even affect the foundations of homes. Furthermore, roots can lift pavement, create bulges in the ground, and facilitate the emergence of pests such as termites or rodents if stumps and debris are not properly removed.
What to do if you have a tree whose roots are already causing problems?
When a tree's root system begins to lift pavement, damage structures, or invade unwanted areas, the usual options are:
- Cut down the tree: This is the quickest option, but not always the most effective, as the roots may still be alive and sprout or continue to cause damage.
- Professional root and stump removalA professional service has the appropriate equipment to remove both the stump and the root system without causing additional damage. It also eliminates breeding grounds for pests.
- If you decide to act on your own, you can dig deep trenches Around the tree, cut off any roots found and place physical barriers made of concrete or strong plastic materials, following these steps:
- Dig at least four deep trenches (minimum 1 meter and wide enough for 20cm blocks) about 60-70cm from the trunk.
- Cut any roots you find to stop them from growing laterally.
- Place columns of blocks glued with concrete in each trench.
- Reinforced with iron rods, stones and concrete filler for greater strength.
- Fill with garden soil to restore the surface soil.
If the main root resists, or if the tree has already been cut down, the use of specific herbicides for wood (applied directly into holes drilled into the stump) can help speed up decomposition, although special care must be taken not to damage nearby plants or contaminate wells or groundwater.
Common problems caused by tree roots
- Structural damage to paths, terraces, swimming pools and walls.
- Lifting and cracking of pavements and floors.
- Blockage and breakage of water or sewage pipes.
- Invitation to pests such as termites, rats and mice if stumps are left unremoved.
- Ground instability due to loss of soil around the roots.
In cases of shallow roots, can increase erosion and facilitate the movement of the surface layer of the soil, leaving unstable terraces and accumulating water in unexpected holes.
How deep do roots actually grow?
Tree roots can be surprising in their extent. Although most does not exceed 60 cm in depth, some species develop roots pivoting that can descend several meters in search of water. In width, they can reach distances five times greater than the crown radius if conditions require it. To determine exactly how deep the roots grow in each case, we recommend consulting how deep tree roots can go.
Therefore, it is essential to assess both the species and the environment in which it will be planted, as well as to plan for future construction or service installations near the tree.
How to remove large or deep roots effectively?
- Stump grindingA chipping machine turns the stump into chips up to about 30 cm deep. This technique prevents sudden ground movements and is less dangerous for neighboring structures. Learn more at How to remove tree roots with bleach.
- Complete extraction: It requires heavy machinery to remove the entire root system, but it leaves a large gap that must be filled.
- Underground physical barriersThick plastic, metal or cement sheets buried around the area to be protected, redirecting root growth.
- Selective root pruning: It is carried out by cutting secondary roots at prudent distances from the trunk (always by a professional), to limit their expansion.
The recommended method will vary depending on the tree's size, species, and proximity to sensitive infrastructure. Consult an arborist or specialized company is key to ensuring the safety and success of the operation.
Trees with invasive roots that are dangerous for homes and gardens
To avoid long-term problems, it is best not to plant species known for their aggressive root system near homes, swimming pools, wells, or underground pipes. These are the most problematic species:
- acer negundo (maple)
- Aesculus hippocastanum (horse chestnut)
- Poplars
- Fraxinus (ash trees)
- Salix (willows, especially weeping willow)
- Ulmus (elms)
- Tilia (linden trees)
- Fagus sylvatica (is)
- Platanus x hispanica (plane tree)
- Delonix regia (flamboyant)
- Robinia pseudoacacia (robinia)
- Pinus, Cupressus, Picea, Firs and other conifers
- Ficus (ficus benjamina, ficus elastica, etc.)
- Eucalyptus
- Mulberry
La minimum planting distance from buildings and pipes It should be at least 10 meters tall, and in the case of weeping willow, up to 30 meters. If you don't have that space, consider other less invasive species or use root barriers before planting. For more details on invasive species, see the roots of mulberry trees.
How to prevent root damage before planting?
- Plan the space considering the adult size of crown and roots.
- Install physical barriers before planting, especially near pools, walls, and pipes.
- Avoid planting aggressively rooted trees near important structures.
- Perform regular canopy pruning to reduce nutrient demand and limit root growth.
- Maintain adequate watering to prevent roots from spreading too far in search of water.
Can defective primary root development be corrected?
In nurseries, it's common for the taproot of trees to be forced to grow in circles within the pot, which can hinder their subsequent adaptation to the soil. If a taproot is found growing horizontally or twisting, it is recommended to replant it. pruning of horizontal parts to encourage vertical regrowth and allow the plant to go deeper in search of water, especially useful in dry areas.
The appropriate choice of species and correct root management is crucial to ensure the stability of any construction and the health of the garden. Problems caused by invasive roots are often detected years after planting, so plan ahead and call on professionals for complex tasks It is always the most advisable.
Appreciate the tree's life cycle, its growth potential, and the elements surrounding it. Only then will you enjoy the beauty and benefits of trees without endangering your home, pool, paths, and the rest of your garden.
