Neighbors tree is growing roots under my side of the fence that are showing above the grass in my yard. This tree was only planted about 4 years ago. Will the fence be damaged in the future as the tree grows? Will the tree be damaged if I removed the root? Good friends with the neighbor so he is wondering the same and how we should solve this.
by 5p0k3d
11 Comments
Fence should be perfectly fine with roots. Cutting the roots would be a major no-no and potentially illegal
Shaving the bottom of the fence to preserve the health of the tree is the best option.
Despite what some commenters here suggest, in most areas of the US, you’re well within your rights to cut those roots. (They hate this fact in this subreddit, so bring on the downvotes!) Also, that root will only get worse and more problematic for you over time.
If the tree dies, in some places, you could be responsible. Additionally, the tree is unlikely to die from this 1 root being cut if it’s otherwise healthy.
You have not shared your location, and we are not your lawyer. You should familiarize yourself with local laws.
Located in Illinois. I’m not looking for legal advice. My neighbor and I are both asking this question. Just wanted to know if removing the root would hurt the tree. The root doesn’t bother me, I’ll deal with the fence if it will hurt the tree. I just didn’t know.
Maple trees are notorious for roots showing above ground. Those two roots are not that substantial they can be chopped cleanly with something like a digging bar and will not cause any harm to the tree long term. I will add the longer root looks like it’s been hit with a mower in a couple spots so cutting it cleanly next to the fence with a heavy digging bar will put it in no different condition than it already is. Only you won’t have them in your yard.
It’s 4 years old?? I’m jealous of the growth in that time. I planted a 6ft maple tree 3 years ago, last spring (2024) we had a random flash frost and it stunted the growth. It’s starting to grow back very healthy and looks wonderful, but not near this size.
Why can’t you coexist with the tree?
Is this silver maple?
Oh ya that’s a super small and shallow root. You could either cut it out or pull it up and bury it deeper. That maple tree won’t bat an eye at that root getting the ax.
How often are you watering the grass?
Water deeper and less frequently to encourage the roots to grow deep. And save water and get healthier grass at the same time
To prevent this from happening irrigate your lawn deeply. Tree roots grow in the presence of water. The deeper you can get water into the soil, the deeper roots will grow. Roots will grow on your side regardless, help yourself by helping the tree. Can’t do anything about the roots that are currently there other than cut them