cutting maple tree roots

Michael Borre · #1 Jul 22, 2006, 06:46 PM

I am digging a 18" diameter hole for a carport footing. There is a 3 1/3 root that runs through the place where the hole is. The hole is about 20 feet from the tree and the root is about 2 feet from the surface. The tree is at least 40 years old and over 40 feet tall. Can I cut this root without doing any damage to the tree.

fredg · Jul 23, 2006, 07:48 AM

Hi,
Probably Yes.
Roots to trees extend on out to at least the full tree branch diameter. Cutting one root should not cause any damage to the tree.
I had one cut down last year, big one. I'm still getting small growth from all around where the tree was, cutting them again every time I mow the grass.
Best wishes.



At Ask Me Help Desk you can ask questions in any topic and have them answered for free by our experts. To ask questions or participate in answering them you must register for a free account. By registering you will be able to: Get free answers from experts in any of our 300+ topics. Accept money for answers that you provide. Communicate privately with other members (PM). See fewer ads. Sign Up!