Sometimes, but it depends on which roots are cut, how large they are and how close they are to the trunk. Removing a few small roots far from the trunk may have little effect on a healthy tree, while cutting large roots near the trunk can weaken the tree’s stability, reduce its ability to take up water and increase the chance of decline.
Because the risks are real, root work on a living tree should be planned carefully and handled by professionals. The goal is to solve the problem without creating a new one.
Why Roots Matter So Much
Roots do two big jobs. They anchor the tree in the ground, and they take up water and nutrients the tree needs to survive.
The large roots closest to the trunk do most of the anchoring. Losing some of them can make a tree less stable, especially in wind or wet soil. Smaller roots spread farther out and handle much of the water uptake.
What Affects Whether Root Cutting Is Safe
Several things shape the outcome. The size of the root, its distance from the trunk, how many roots are affected and which side of the tree they’re on all matter.
The tree’s age and health play a part as well. Young, vigorous trees may cope with root loss better than older or stressed trees. A tree that is already declining may not recover well from further root damage.
The type of tree also matters. Some trees tolerate root disturbance better than others, which is one more reason to have the specific tree assessed before any cutting.
Possible Consequences of Cutting Major Roots
Cutting large structural roots can increase the chance that a tree leans or falls, sometimes years later. The tree may also show stress in the canopy, such as thinning leaves or dieback, as it struggles to take up enough water.
Cut roots can also become entry points for decay. That damage may not be obvious for a long time.
Alternatives Worth Considering
In some cases, the problem can be solved without cutting major roots. A sidewalk or path might be rerouted or bridged over roots. Mulch can cover surface roots in a lawn area, and new projects may be planned farther from the trunk.
When roots do need to be cut, a professional can look at which roots can be removed with the least impact. Selective tree root removal is very different from cutting through roots without a plan.
If cutting enough roots would make the tree unstable, removing the tree may be safer than leaving a weakened tree standing. You can learn more about tree removal if that becomes the better option.
Homeowners shouldn’t cut major roots of a living tree themselves. Beyond the risk to the tree, there may be buried utility lines nearby, so call 811 before any digging.
If roots from a tree on your Joplin property are causing trouble, a local tree service can look at the tree and the roots involved and explain the options that protect both the tree and your property.
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