We were having trench work done and the landscapers cut a large root next to the trunk our our Douglas fir. Windward side. Is there any hope for the tree or does it need to come down? There is a house next to it (opposite of where root was cut). We are so upset.
by Annie9874
8 Comments
Impossible to tell from photos. Get a professional on site. I would wager it’s fine, but I’m not wagering someone’s house or life.
Terribly reckless. That’s way way way too close to the tree and should have been extremely obvious from the beginning that it would be an issue to both you and the landscapers.
It’s now a major liability. The tree is massive and de-stabilized. If something does happen, insurance is likely not to bail you out.
So the best course of action is now getting tree removal quotes.
Oh my! The damage is severe and potentially life-threatening for the tree. By cutting large structural roots so close to the trunk, the landscapers have compromised the tree’s physical stability and its ability to take up water, significantly increasing the risk of it falling during high winds.
Beyond the immediate tipping hazard, the shattered root ends are now highly susceptible to rot and disease. You should immediately have a certified arborist perform a safety assessment if you want more piece of mind.
What you could do yourself for now:
1. Clean the Cuts: Do not bury those shattered ends as-is. Use a sharp, clean saw to make a smooth, vertical cut on the roots remaining attached to the tree. Smooth surfaces heal much better than splintered ones.
2. Hydration: Keep the remaining root zone moist (but not swampy) to reduce stress on the surviving root system.
This sub has convinced me that people don’t know trees need roots to live.
Probably best to take out that tree. Not worth the risk. Luckily Doug firs grow fast and that one doesn’t look very old. Plant a new one today and it’ll get going quick.
Id be expecting them to cover the cost of removal since they created the hazard.
I mean, the tree is done. Did you want them to stop in front of it or something? It looks like you’re getting a sewer installed.
I mean, it’s really your fault for not indicating where you wanted the trench dug, and didn’t specify you wanted it hand-dug to avoid any tree roots. Your quote would have been significantly higher because the labor would have much higher.