Can I Cut a Tree Root Without Killing the Tree?

03.05.2024 - 14:20 / gardengatemagazine.com / Jennifer Howell / Can I (I)

Can I Cut a Tree Root Without Killing the Tree? If you think your tree's roots will cause problems, here's how to cut them without killing the tree. When can you cut a tree root?

Most trees have four to seven major anchoring roots that flare out horizontally from the trunk, with only a couple of deep tap roots. Cutting even one of those roots can remove up to 25% of the root system of the tree and seriously compromise its stability. Only a professional arborist should cut those large roots when absolutely necessary.

If you have a small tree whose major anchoring roots look like they might cause problems later, you might be able to cut those yourself.

• Only cut tree roots that are smaller than 2 inches in diameter or you will compromise a tree’s health and stability.
  
• Cut no closer to the tree than three times the diameter of its trunk. For example, if the trunk is 6 inches in diameter, cut roots off at least 18 inches away.
  

If in doubt, get a better look at the root to be sure you need to cut it: Carefully scrape the soil away or wash it out with a high-pressure stream of water. And always make a clean cut with a pruning saw, loppers or pruners to prevent disease or pest infestations.

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