CONTRIBUTED CONTENT: Anchored

I find myself in many conversations regarding tree roots and what can be done to eliminate the problematic ones. Roots can cause all kinds of issues for homeowners, and I completely understand the desire — and sometimes the necessity — to remove pesky surface roots. Nobody likes mowing their lawn and running over roots so large that you bounce around like you’re riding a roller coaster in your own backyard. 

If you are considering removing these types of roots, I would caution you to think twice and explore your options and the potential ramifications. The importance of the root system and the functions it provides to the tree or shrub it is attached to are critical to understand before going to town on these landscape nuisances.

Roots serve two primary functions: absorbing water and nutrients and keeping the tree upright. If the roots become compromised, both of these essential roles can be compromised as well. 

A tree’s stability isn’t simply determined by having a giant root ball underneath it. Roots, soil, trunk, and branches function as one large system. Structural roots near the trunk provide much of the anchorage, while the surrounding soil provides resistance. The safety and stability of the tree are the first and foremost factors I consider when deciding whether roots should stay or go. If we can safely remove troublesome roots without affecting the stability of the tree, we have just checked off one of the boxes in the plus column for root removal. 

Once we have established that removal of the troublesome roots will not leave the tree in a state of instability, the residual health of the tree after removal is what we must evaluate. 

Most tree roots are relatively shallow and widespread rather than growing straight down like a carrot. The roots responsible for absorbing water and minerals from the soil are much smaller and branch off the larger roots that provide structural support. Removing one “anchor root” that is causing problems can actually remove a significant portion of the fine absorbing roots that the tree relies on for its health. It’s a pretty simple equation: remove the roots, and you remove a portion of the tree’s ability to absorb the water and nutrients it needs to thrive. 

The proximity of the root to the main trunk, the current health and condition of the tree, and the type of tree all play into whether that tree can withstand root removal. My suggestion, if you have current root problems, is to call a certified arborist to take a look at your situation and provide you with your options for that particular tree. Sometimes the best solution is removing the root. Sometimes it’s modifying the landscape around it. And sometimes, the safest option is simply to leave it alone. 

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