If I cut this root, will I harm the tree?
by
Louise
+10
See the photos below. I'm cutting steps out of a hill and have come upon this root that I need to cut to match the edge of the step below it so I can put a piece of railroad tie for the next step. Will it hurt the tree to do that?
See root above the step. I need to cut it so I can put another railroad tie for the next step.
Tree on the left is the one that has the root.
Another view of the tree the root belongs to.
12 answers
-
We have trees that put out lots and lots of limbs either on or just below the surface...sure plays havoc with the lawn and landscaping...but Cutting a few of these small limbs is no big deal. However, we are careful not to cut any more than we have to. Now that's not to say that you should go about clearing out a large area or digging really deep in a large area near a tree.
Jeanette S
on Sep 23, 2014
-
You won't hurt a tree that size. Cut away.
Laurie
on Sep 24, 2014
-
You will not hurt the tree. What amazes me is that you only ran into 1 root with that size tree! I cut roots all the time off the trees in my yard and have not had any issues. When you are done the steps are going to look so good. Happy gardening!
The Garden Frog with C Renee
on Sep 24, 2014
-
Won't hurt the tree at all. Cut them!
Robin
on Sep 24, 2014
-
Thanks, everyone. I'll cut away!!! Photos will be posted later.
Louise
on Sep 24, 2014
-
My father was an avid gardener, and I had a root from a tree like that and I wanted to cut it too, but he said not to, because it will cause damage to the tree later. Instead he dug like a trench sort of speak, below and along that root, deep enough to just push the root down and cover it with the the dirt, making the dirt holding it in place. No damage to the tree or to your steps. That root is strong enough that you can dig along it and pretty deep for you to gently push the root down pretty good. Take caution though and check by the tree itself though to make sure it's not going to break off, you don't want that to happen. Hope this helps,
Tina Krenz
on Sep 25, 2014
-
I forgot to mention, like Jennie said, be careful.
Tina Krenz
on Sep 25, 2014
-
I cut numerous when my daughter & I had to make a walkway from house to car. Trees were full grown, so that may have helped. Ended up with great walkway & all asked if I hires some one to do it - no just a mom & daughter project.
Bea
on Sep 25, 2014
-
Generally no, you won't hurt the tree. It'll just grow collateral roots at any point on the tree side of the cut. The root that 'matters' is the tap. Still, if the tree hold special value/meaning to you and you want to be 100 percent certain, you might consider seeking the advice of an arborist.
Nostromo
on Sep 25, 2014
-
I was told that you can only cut one above the ground root each year without hurting the tree. I would not do more.
Jane R.
on Sep 25, 2014
-
Glad I could help, and hope all turns out well.
Tina Krenz
on Sep 26, 2014
-
You might be able to notch out a place the root can travel through the railroad tie in order for the root to stay put undisturbed.
Sandra
on Sep 26, 2014
Sign Up to Answer
