AboutJim Hyland Expertise I am an expert in Forestry, Forest Entomology, Forest Pest Control, and Forest Health. Extensive knowledge in Identification of insects and diseases of trees. Expert on Bark beetles and other insects that attack forests. Also a Registrated Forester with extensive knowledge in the management and care of forests.
Experience 34 years as State Pest Management Chief in a Southern state. Extensive knowledge in Forestry.
BS with major in Forest Management and Entomology Registered Forester Certified Pesticide Appicator
Hi Jim , I live in a townhouse community that was built 8 years ago, a tree was planted in the center of my home and the person next door ,our homes are built on concrete slabs , my worry is that at some time will the roots of this tree crack our sidewalks and our slabs? I am including photos for you to see ,the tree is beautiful and I would hate to loose it but if it is going to cause a problem then we have no choice, also from the pictures can you include a ball park time frame on if and when this would need to be done.Can you tell me what kind of tree it is? I have close up photos for you as well
Answer From the distance it is hard to tell exactly what species of tree this is. It looks like one of the spruce or hemlock trees. You should not have a root problem with these. However it is a large tree for the space it is in. Over time the limbs will grow and begin to rub the sides of the house and could cause damage. It is also blocking the entrance and as it grows wider more will be blocked. The lower limbs can be pruned off so you can walk under it and as the limbs reach near the house these limbs can also be pruned off leaving a clear trunk up to the eves of the house. Pruning should be done in the late Fall to early spring (after the hardwood leaves have turned and before the leaves bud out in the spring).
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