Let’s say you have tree roots that are above ground and creating a tripping hazard. Does cutting roots kill a tree? How else could you remove them?
Expert tree services in Oakland, TN, like Spruce Up Tree Care, can provide safe root-cutting for trees. In the meantime, learn more about the root pruning risks for a tree below.
Why Root Damage Is Dangerous for Trees
Roots provide trees with stability while delivering water and nutrients to the leaves and branches. If you’re worried about tree death, root damage is something you’ll want to avoid at all costs.
The level of tree root-cutting damage depends on the depth of the injury and the size of the root. A slight nick on a small root should not affect most trees because other roots may be able to take over the role of the nicked root. Larger roots are more of a problem.
When multiple larger roots suffer damage, the injuries could block nutrients from reaching the leaves. The leaves may start to yellow or drop off, as the plant mimics the signs you might see in a stressful summer drought. Slicing major roots could also affect the plant’s stability, increasing the risk of damage during windstorms or killing the tree.
Inadvertently Cutting a Root
Does cutting roots kill a tree if you only slightly nick them with the mower? Usually, minor damage from a mower should not affect the health of your large, mature trees. Other roots can move the tree’s needed water and nutrients while the nicked root heals itself.
Recently planted saplings have higher root pruning risks. Trees that are not well-established will suffer more from mower blade damage. If you want to save a young tree after a cut, you might have to get help from tree care professionals like Spruce Up Tree Care.
Removing a Protruding Root
Some people prefer to remove roots that are above the ground to eliminate the chance of hitting them with a mower. However, surviving tree root loss can be difficult when cutting out large roots or taking out a significant percentage of them. This work must be done carefully to protect the health of the plant.
There’s one way to ensure safe root cutting: Trees do better under the watchful eye of a certified arborist! Professionals inspect the root system carefully and use the right tools to protect the plant’s health. It’s safer to remove these roots during late autumn and winter than during the tree’s growing season.
Our Experts Can Explain the Impact of Cutting Tree Roots — And Do the Job Safely
At Spruce Up Tree Care, we understand that an exposed root can be a hazard when mowing or enjoying the yard. We can put together a plan to remove the most problematic roots. Ultimately, our focus is on keeping your trees as healthy as possible.
Does cutting roots kill a tree if you do it yourself? Damaged tree roots could certainly kill the plant, so why not get a free cost estimate from our certified arborists for root removal in Oakland, TN? Call us today at (901) 833-8242!
