[inchworm]

I have a very old Sugar Maple tree in my front yard that has roots that have surfaced above the ground. I have to have someone out yearly to roto-root my sewer sysems due to tree roots. This is the only tree in the front yard. My problem is: when I move I hit these above ground roots. They are taking over my front yard. Seems like they are protruding higher every year. Can I grind down the roots that are protruding? Is this an indication that my tree is dying? What can I do about sewer roots?

[twinkiedooter]

You can grind down the roots that are protruding above ground. This is not an indication of the tree dying but an indication that the roots are "popping" up out of the ground or growing that way. As far as the roots growing into your sewer lines, you could sever the roots where they keep intruding into the pipes. If done correctly it should not kill the tree if it is very large to begin with. Just be sure you know where the pipe is located though so you don't cut the pipe by mistake. You will have to "dig" out the roots and expose the roots so you can physically see where they are intruding into the pipe. Then sever the roots and cover it all back up with dirt and water the tree well for a few weeks to let it adjust to the root system being rearranged.