Many homeowners don't think of tree roots much unless the roots are making a nuisance of themselves. But in order to take the best care of your trees, you need to have a good understanding of how tree root systems work, what can go wrong, and how you can best manage them.
Here are some basics of how a tree's root system works and what you as a homeowner should know about them.
Types and Functions of Tree Roots
Trees typically have several different types of roots. The majority of a tree's roots, however, are tiny thin, flexible feeder roots. These roots are designed to suck in water and any nutrients from the soil, and they are typically found less than two feet below the surface of the soil.
The feeder roots transfer what they absorb to larger woody transport roots. These woody roots also help structurally stabilize the tree, since feeder roots are too flexible to provide all the structural support the tree needs.
Another type of root is a taproot. This is a large, deep root that goes straight down from the center of the tree. However, not all trees have a taproot. Some trees may also develop striker roots and adventitious roots, but they're typically less important.
Anatomy of Tree Roots
Tree roots are composed of several layers. Two important layers are the inner layer of a root, which has tubes that carry water and nutrients, and the outer layer known as the epidermis. The epidermis is constructed to protect the interior of the root and sends out root hairs to take up water.
Common Problems With Tree Roots
If a tree is planted into a wet area, its roots may experience problems with rot and fungal growth. Trees with this problem, called root rot, may drop their leaves, or the leaves may turn yellow or brown.
Another common problem is when the tree's root system is buried too deep. If you look at your tree and its sides sink straight into the ground like a telephone pole, this is likely the case with your tree. A tree that's planted correctly should flare out a bit near the ground. This portion of the tree is called the root flare.
If the root flare isn't visible, that often means the tree was planted too deep as a sapling. When that happens, not only can the trunk rot because some of it is covered in dirt, but the tree's roots have problems as well. The root system can develop too far underground, meaning that the feeder roots can't be at the top level of the soil and may become oxygen-deprived.
Issues Tree Roots Can Cause
Tree roots can sometimes cause problems with structures or landscape near the tree. For example, tree roots can cause problems if you plant a garden bed too close to the tree. The aggressive roots can grow into the bed and multiply there to take advantage of any soil amendments and fertilizer you use, essentially stealing the nutrients from your garden plants.
In addition, tree roots can be detrimental to plumbing, wells, septic systems, sprinkler systems, and sewer lines. These systems contain water; the tree senses the vibrations water makes and sends roots to find the water source.
Thread-like roots can infiltrate even the smallest weak point in a pipe or system and pave the way for more roots to enter. Tree roots can enlarge holes and cause water waste or can even proliferate inside pipes, causing a blockage. This can be particularly expensive when it happens to a septic system, so you may need tree root blocking measures to prevent it.
As you can see, a tree's root system is an impressive natural structure that serves several purposes but can run afoul of fungus or cause damage to a septic system or building. If you need help treating a sick tree or keeping your tree's roots from causing problems, get in touch with a local tree expert such as McClain's Tree Expertstoday.
