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.
Here’s how to know whether you should cut a tree root:
- 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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