Steve Nix is a member of the Society of American Foresters and a former forest resources analyst for the state of Alabama. Tree root systems are seldom on the minds of forest owners, tree planters, ...

We don’t often think about the roots of trees until there is a problem. A forester friend of mine called it a “fencepost mentality.” Being underground, they are often out of sight out of mind. However ...

Although most roots tend to grow (and stay) underground, sometimes those belonging to trees can make their way to the surface. While this isn’t something you necessarily notice out in the woods ...

Steve Nix is a member of the Society of American Foresters and a former forest resources analyst for the state of Alabama. Tree and yard owners are often faced with the problem of a tree's exposed ...

Much to the dismay of homeowners, landscape trees sometimes grow roots on top of the surface of the lawn or possibly even buckle sidewalks and driveways. These surface roots can be quite a nuisance to ...

Q: I have a large, established maple tree close enough to my garden (due to space limits) that it is now stealing nutrients from my vegetable plants. I vaguely remember reading somewhere that I can ...

Q: Tree roots have come up to the surface in our lawn. It’s so bad the lawnmower blade hits them. What is causing this, and what is the best way to deal with them without harming the tree? A: There ...

Large trees often develop surface roots that can damage sidewalks, mower blades, and tree health. Mulch 2–3 inches deep to cover roots safely and reduce maintenance without harming the tree. Never cut ...