Expert: Jim Hyland - 7/15/2007

Question
Our neighbor has a row of pine trees adjacent to our yard. The roots close, at and above grade. They are also under our concrete driveway causing damage. Can we cut the roots without killing or damaging the tree?

Answer
You can cut up to 1/3 of the roots of a tree especially pines without damaging the tree. But do not cut the roots closer then 6-10 feet from the trunk. You can dig a trench along the drive and cut the roots. Most of the roots will be within the first 24-30 inches of soil. They will over time grow back but you can install a root barrier or re dig the trench about every three years. Root barriers can be bought at most nurseties. Here is a web site that discribes the root barriers.
http://aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/extension/newsletters/hortupdate/mar02/art3ma...