Tree Roots Heaving

Hysyde · Apr 5, 2020

What is the best way to deal with roots heaving in your yard?

The attached picture doesn't quite show it, but this large root from a spruce tree is now protruding quite a bit. It's received a bit of trimming over the last few years courtesy of my mower. I'm guessing it's a mixture of frost heaving and maybe some compaction around it.

I could add some soil around it, but to completely cover it up would really mess up the grade.

I don't believe cutting such a large root as this is feasible given the damage possible to the tree?

How do the pros deal with these issues?

Thanks

Peter 315 · Apr 5, 2020

NOT a pro I would cut it back near the tree base and rip it out then fill in the mess with loam.........

old and tired · Apr 5, 2020

The root is pretty chopped up already. Not sure if it's doing much for the tree. There are plenty of other roots going in other directions, I personally don't think this would harm the tree much. I would get an old ax, sharpen it, and start chopping... pull it out and fill with dirt. :2cents:

Hysyde · Apr 5, 2020

old and tired said:
The root is pretty chopped up already. Not sure if it's doing much for the tree. There are plenty of other roots going in other directions, I personally don't think this would harm the tree much. I would get an old ax, sharpen it, and start chopping... pull it out and fill with dirt. :2cents:

I'm not a tree expert, but I thought roots could take a fair bit of abuse but still function. But you're right, it may be a bit of a blow to the tree, but one that has a high probability of survival.