Roots play a role in the health and development of any tree, delivering water and nutrients and ensuring stability and strength. Left to their own devices, however, it's not uncommon for them to cause several problems on a property. They could push up driveways, sidewalks, and other surfaces, wrap or puncture underground pipes and lines, and damage home foundations. Here are a few tree care tips to avoid such issues.

A Tree Care Guide for Controlling Root Growth

1. Install Root Barriers

These barriers are physical blockades that prevent roots from extending into specific parts of your property, guiding growth down into the soil rather than in a horizontal direction. They are available in many materials, including strong HDPE plastics, corrosion-resistant metals, corrugated fiberglass, and even fabrics like burlap.

Root barriers can contain herbicide through coating or built-in nodules to deter out-of-control growth. Consulting a tree care professional will help determine which option is best for your yard's needs.

2. Apply Chemical Root Killers

These chemicals eliminate tree roots and prevent new ones from growing. Like barriers, several products on the market are designed for this purpose. Some, like bromacil and hexazinone, can be sprayed on the ground over the roots, where the soil will absorb them. During the next rain, the chemical gets pushed further into the earth.

Other products can be flushed down the toilet to attack the roots affecting your plumbing. No matter what chemical root killer you use, however, bear in mind that they are toxic substances. Therefore, apply them carefully, according to the product instructions.

3. Remove the Roots

Cutting and grinding invasive roots will remove them from your property. Only a tree care professional should do this task since they'll know how to do it without crippling or killing the rest of the plant. It involves a precise process: the roots to be eliminated must be identified beforehand, and the removal is conducted slowly and with great care.

Don't let aggressive tree roots damage your property. Putnam County Tree Service is here to help. With more than 15 years of industry experience, they serve Cookeville, TN, providing comprehensive tree care services. From root and stump removal to pruning and land clearing, they'll use industry-leading techniques and equipment to enhance your landscape. Call (931) 528-3828 to request a quote, or visit their website to explore their services in greater detail.