Tree Root Problems: What You Can’t See WILL Hurt You
- holly4704
- Jun 18
- 3 min read
When most people think about tree care, they look up—focusing on branches, leaves, and the trunk. But the real danger may be lurking below the surface. Tree roots are the lifeline of any tree, and when they’re damaged, compacted, or growing in the wrong place, the consequences can be devastating—for both the tree and your property.
Whether you're a homeowner, HOA manager, or commercial property owner in Northern Virginia, understanding root problems is essential to maintaining healthy, hazard-free trees.
🧠 Why Tree Roots Matter More Than You Think
Roots anchor trees in place, absorb water and nutrients, and store food during dormant months. According to the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA), as much as 80% of a tree’s issues originate underground.
The majority of a tree’s roots grow within the top 18-24 inches of soil and extend well beyond the canopy. That’s why root damage isn’t always easy to detect—until it’s too late.
⚠️ 5 Common Tree Root Problems That Could Be Lurking on Your Property
1. Root Compaction from Foot or Vehicle Traffic
Construction equipment, parked cars, and even frequent foot traffic can compress soil around trees. This reduces the oxygen roots need to survive. You may see:
Thinning canopy
Wilting or yellowing leaves
Slow growth year over year
🌱 Prevent it: Use mulch rings and barriers to limit traffic and improve aeration.
2. Girdling Roots (Strangling from Within)
Girdling roots wrap around the base of the tree and choke the trunk, restricting the flow of water and nutrients. These can form naturally or from improper planting.
Symptoms include:
Leaning trunk
Lack of flare at the base (tree looks like a “telephone pole”)
Sparse foliage on one side
🛠️ Fix it: Certified arborists can perform root collar excavations to identify and prune girdling roots before they kill the tree.
3. Root Rot and Fungal Infections
Poor drainage or overwatering can suffocate roots and lead to rot. Often accompanied by fungal growth or mushrooms at the base, root rot is difficult to treat and can lead to tree failure.
Warning signs:
Mushy or discolored roots when exposed
Rapid canopy dieback
Fungal conks on trunk or base
🧪 Pro tip: If root rot is suspected, we recommend a professional assessment and possibly lab testing.
4. Surface Root Exposure
If your tree roots are breaking through the lawn or sidewalk, they may be searching for oxygen. While not always harmful to the tree itself, surface roots can cause trip hazards, lawn damage, and hardscape upheaval.
Avoid:
Cutting surface roots (this can destabilize the tree!)
Piling more soil on top
✅ Better approach: Install mulch over exposed areas or redesign landscaping to accommodate the root zone.
5. Invasive or Aggressive Roots Near Structures
Some species have roots that seek moisture aggressively—think maples, willows, or poplars.
These roots can damage:
Foundation walls
Sewer lines
Irrigation systems
🏠 Rule of thumb: Trees should be planted at least 15–20 feet away from structures, but this varies by species and site conditions.
Virginia Cooperative Extension has a helpful list of tree species and their preferred planting distances.
👀 How to Spot Hidden Root Damage
Root problems don’t always show above ground. But if you notice any of the following, call a certified arborist:
Sudden tree lean
Cracks in nearby pavement
Soil heaving around the base
Large dead limbs falling unexpectedly
An onsite assessment often involves air spading (a method to expose roots safely), structural analysis, and in some cases, root pruning or stabilization.
🛑 The Danger of DIY Root Cutting
Cutting tree roots on your own can destabilize the tree, reduce nutrient absorption, or open wounds for infection. Worse—you could be liable if a damaged tree later falls and causes harm.
Always consult a Certified Arborist before tampering with a root system.
🧰 Potomac Tree’s Root Zone Solutions
At Potomac Tree and Shrub, we don’t guess—we assess. Our root zone services include:
Root collar excavation to diagnose girdling or decay
Air spading for safe exposure and treatment
Soil aeration and decompaction for long-term health
Structural root pruning when needed
Cabling or bracing if roots have compromised stability
Every treatment is backed by ISA-certified expertise and custom plans based on your landscape's specific needs.
📞 Schedule Your Tree Root Assessment Today
What you can’t see can hurt you—especially when it comes to tree roots. Don’t wait for visible damage or emergency removals. Call our certified arborists for a professional root evaluation and health plan for your trees.
📞 Call 571.354.1153 or💻 https://www.potomactree.com/
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