It’s important to remove troublesome stumps: Here’s everything you can expect from stump grinding costs for your next landscaping project.
How Deep Do Tree Roots Grow?
From inches to dozens of feet, find out what lies beneath
Photo: Quinn / Adobe Stock
Photo: Quinn / Adobe Stock
Highlights
The depth of tree roots depends on tree type, soil conditions, and climate.
You can encourage tree root deepening by frequent watering, adding organic matter to soil, and keeping weeds surrounding trees at bay.
You can remove leftover tree roots with homemade remedies like boiling water or rock or epsom salt.
Consult a stump or tree removal professional for tips on when and how to remove tree roots.
Get quotes from up to 3 pros!
Enter a zip below and get matched to top-rated pros near you.
Beneath every tree lie a web of tree roots that extend beneath the soil, sometimes several inches deep and sometimes just beneath the surface. Let’s review how deep tree roots go, the elements that affect root depth, and how you can deepen or remove roots.
Average Tree Root Depth
Tree roots reach depths of two to six feet, but most roots are located one to three feet below the ground’s surface to maintain access to water, oxygen, and other essential nutrients. Your tree’s root depth depends on factors like local climate, tree type and size, soil type, and water availability. Large trees, such as redwoods, have roots that stretch seven to nine feet deep.
When removing a stump from your yard, consult the local stump removal pro about the tree roots’ depth. These professionals can advise you on the best course of action for preserving or removing tree roots.
Factors That Affect Root Depth
Just like humans grow into all shapes and sizes, tree roots grow at different depths depending on a number of variables. From species of tree to weather and soil conditions, learn how different factors encourage or stump root depth.
Tree Type
Trees that are native to areas they’re located in will respond better to the soil and climate, so they’ll naturally grow deeper roots than species that aren’t native. Oak and maple trees, for example, are native to areas with deep soils, with roots that can grow as deep as 20 feet, sometimes more. Pines and firs, on the other hand, are native to areas with shallow soils so their roots won’t grow quite as deep.
Soil Conditions
Tree roots have a harder time growing deep in soil that’s dense and compact, which is more common in clay and sand-based soils located in coastal plains and floodplains. Loose soil that’s easy to dig through is a better fit for tree roots, which can extend deeper in this kind of environment.
Climate
Tree roots tend to grow deeper when they’re in search of water, so dryer climates will encourage deeper growth. Consistent rainfall will lead to more shallow root systems, so tree roots won’t extend as deep beneath the soil.
Before you read more: Get inspired by these real pro projects
How Can You Deepen Tree Roots?
Photo: schankz / iStock / Getty Images
Although the depth of tree roots is largely dependent on its environment, there are a few tasks that encourage deeper root growth to promote the health and longevity of your tree. Follow these steps to help tree roots grow deeper:
Implement slow-drip irrigation for deeper, more frequent watering
Use compost and mulch to add organic matter to soil surrounding your tree
Avoid over fertilizing and keep grass and weeds away from the tree’s base
How to Get Rid of Tree Roots
If you’re more interested in getting rid of tree roots, there are ways you can eliminate them after a tree has been removed from your yard.
Homemade Remedies or Chemical Solutions
If you want to go the less harsh route, homemade remedies, such as epsom or rock salt, boiling water, and vinegar can help prevent tree roots from growing back. If less harsh solutions don’t do the trick, you can turn to chemical herbicides that will kill off remaining roots for good.
Manual Labor
If you have the time, digging up the roots with a shovel can eliminate them for the long haul. You may need more heavy-duty tools such as a reciprocating saw and a drill, but it’s a pretty basic DIY job if your roots aren’t very deep.
Hire a Pro
An arborist or tree removal company can help not only remove trees but also their left behind roots. The cost to remove tree roots ranges from $100 to $200, depending on how deep the roots go and how long it takes for removal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Tree experts don’t advise against digging through tree roots, but instead encourage caution and consultation with a local arborist to make sure you don’t damage the tree’s structure or interrupt its water or nutrient intake. An arborist can recommend specific practices when digging and help prune the roots or dig a trench for utilities with a tool that can remove soil without touching the tree’s roots.
The shepherd’s tree, native to the Kalahari Desert in Africa, holds the record for the deepest known tree roots at over 230 feet deep. Some African communities refer to it as the “Tree of Life” since it provides food, shade, and medicinal properties to the surrounding community.
The homeowners guide to tree services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Find out how much it costs to plant a tree based on the number of trees, their size, where you want to plant them, and DIY versus professional costs.
The cost of bush removal depends on several factors, including size, location, and soil type. Learn the final price tag of bush removal in this cost guide.
Cutting tree roots doesn’t always stop them from growing. Here’s what you need to know about root regrowth and how to prevent issues.
There’s a tree you suspect could be dying, which leaves you wondering—is tree removal tax deductible? Read on to find out.
If you’re searching for people who cut down trees, look for arborists and tree cutters. Our guide will show you who to hire for tree cutting.