Tree roots above soil

[nhyrum]

I have 3 cottonwood trees in my back yard, that are all different maturity levels. The largest one has about a half dozen roots that are above ground significantly, and I hit them with the mower every 3 months or so accidentally, which is good for neither the tree nor the mower blade.

I've heard that trees that have roots above the soil don't take well to being buried, unless it's mulch that breaths better, but that was talking about maples. This one is the only one of the three with roots above ground, so I don't think it would mind having the roots buried. It also sends up shoots all over my lawn, that I only see if I go WAAAAAAAY to long between mowings.

I hate to tear up the tree... But it has very low hanging branches, that are at eye level... And I don't have any pruning equipment, but I do have access to a truck... Which would solve a whole host of problems. And force me to kill the lawn and overseed like I want to...

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[TimmyG]

Is there a question in there?

[nhyrum]

Is there a question in there?

Lol yeah, sorry.

Can I cover the roots on a cottonwood? If not, I'm seriously debating removing the tree

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[TimmyG]

It is never recommended to bury the surface roots of any tree. That said, if the only other option you're considering is removing the tree, go for it. Bury the roots. What's the worst that could happen? If the tree struggles, remove it. The health of the tree may very well not suffer.

[1977212]

I dig around my trees. Just don't expose it all. I can post a picture tomorrow

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[nhyrum]

It is never recommended to bury the surface roots of any tree. That said, if the only other option you're considering is removing the tree, go for it. Bury the roots. What's the worst that could happen? If the tree struggles, remove it. The health of the tree may very well not suffer.

Honestly, I don't think the tree is very healthy anyway. I hate to rip it up but... I now know the homeowners battle...

[mtroberts20]

It also sends up shoots all over my lawn, that I only see if I go WAAAAAAAY to long between mowings.

Not sure about all trees, or cottonwoods in particular, but I think when a tree sends up shoots it is a type of survival mechanism to create new baby trees because it is struggling or unhealthy in some way. Seems reasonable to cover the roots with mulch and go from there.

[1977212]

Gotta be careful with trees and mulch, had a neighbor kill 8 30ft evergreens

[LoneRanger]

^ What was the root cause?

[1977212]

^ What was the root cause?

Mulch.

[LoneRanger]

^ Mulching properly doesn't kill trees. Was there a specific reason?

[1977212]

^ Mulching properly doesn't kill trees. Was there a specific reason?

Was a lot, like 4+in red mulch

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[LoneRanger]

Not to discount your experience but, I've seen 8" of mulch applied and no tree damage. Was it a fungus issue, from mulch applied against the flare?

[guisertj]

I would try to consult with a certified arborist. You can find them at treesaregood.org.

From what little I know, if you cover the roots they will keep fighting you. Tree roots need oxygen to survive, and the soil may be compacted. Compost mulching with a ground cover could be a good option.

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