How to Cut Above Ground Tree Roots on Pine Trees

Pine trees have expansive root systems.

Pine trees are majestic additions to home landscapes, towering high over homes and providing shade and wild life homes. The expansive root system of pine trees can become a problem in drive ways, plumbing and home foundation. Often the roots may grow up hugging the top soil, increasing the hazard. Cutting the roots is a fairly straightforward process. The problem with cutting pine tree roots is you may impede the tree's ability to absorb water and nutrients, weakening it against disease or harsh winds.

Things You'll Need

• Hand saw
• Shovel

Instructions

1. Walk through the area where pine tree roots pose a problem. Evaluate how many roots will be affected and what the risk might be to the tree after amputating the roots. If you are unsure about the risks, consult an arborist to find the best solution.

2. Dig around the roots you will cut. Dig the area closest to the trunk where the root emerges from the ground. Loosen the soil enough to provide space for the saw.

3. Saw the roots off as close to the tree trunk as possible. The cleaner the cut, the more likely the root will heal, keeping the tree healthy.

Tips & Warnings

• Direct the cut so the root is "encouraged" to grow down not up when possible. This requires sawing it from an area where the root is still moving down.

• If you need to remove many roots, it might be better to remove the entire tree or look at a different landscaping alternative. Cutting too many roots can kill the tree making it susceptible to falling over in high winds.

References

• UFL.edu: Tree Roots in Landscape
• This Old House: Driveway Around Tree