Tree Root Damage

Figure 1, Photo by Bruce Hagen

Large roots on one side of this tree have been severed to stop their encroachment on the sidewalk. In doing so the tree is made unstable and the tree will suffer from reduced water and mineral supply, ultimately causing it to fail.

Figure 2, Photo by Bruce Hagen

Excavation around this tree was too aggressive. Many roots were damaged. If 30% or 40% of roots are removed the tree becomes unstable. Decay grows faster into big root cuts even more than into big limb cuts. Damaging or removing large roots is even more destructive than damaging large limbs.

Figure 3, Photo by Bruce Hagen

Another example of root damage and removal which dangerously impacts a tree’s stability, safety and longevity.

Figure 4, Photo by Bruce Hagen

The large support roots of this redwood that were lifting the sidewalk, had to be removed to repair the pavement. Consequently, the consulting arborist supervising the work recommended the tree be removed because the root-pruning made the tree unstable.