How to Prevent Tree Roots From Growing Above Ground (Protect Your Landscape)

If you’ve ever stepped outside on a warm afternoon and noticed tree roots pushing up through your lawn like an unwanted surprise guest, you’re not alone. It’s one of the most common problems tree owners face, and let me tell you, it can wreak havoc on your garden’s aesthetic and even damage your lawn mower. 

Overexposed roots are more than just an eyesore—they can choke the life out of your plants and make your lawn a tripping hazard.

Now, I’ve been in your shoes. Standing in the yard, frustrated with roots that refuse to stay where they belong, and wondering if there’s any way to stop this natural phenomenon. After doing a little digging (pun intended), I’ve found a few tricks that can help prevent tree roots from growing above ground. 

Let’s dive into the strategies that will keep your tree’s roots where they belong, underground, and your landscape looking pristine.

Why Do Tree Roots Grow Above Ground?

Before we jump into prevention, let’s understand why tree roots take this rebellious route in the first place. Trees grow roots primarily to anchor themselves and absorb nutrients and water from the soil. But sometimes, roots emerge above the ground due to a variety of reasons, such as soil erosion, compact soil, or even the tree’s natural growth patterns.

In some cases, roots will creep above ground because they are struggling to find enough oxygen or moisture. Or, they might be responding to trauma, like a change in the landscape or a damaged root system. It’s also worth noting that some trees are more likely to grow roots above ground, particularly species like maples, oaks, and willows. However, that doesn’t mean there’s nothing you can do about it.

Understanding the Problem

When tree roots surface, they do more than just cause an unsightly mess—they can create a real headache for homeowners. Here’s a quick breakdown of the problems exposed roots can cause:

• Lawn Damage: Tree roots that push up above ground can disrupt your lawn’s grass. They create uneven patches that make mowing a nightmare. Imagine trying to mow a lawn while dodging roots that feel like a game of “Whack-A-Mole!”
• Tripping Hazards: Exposed tree roots can be dangerous for pets, children, and even adults walking across your yard. A sudden root trip can lead to twisted ankles, cuts, and bruises.
• Root Damage: If the exposed roots are not properly taken care of, they can start to decay. This can eventually weaken the entire tree and may cause long-term health problems for the plant.
• Watering and Irrigation Problems: When roots are exposed, they can dry out faster, meaning they may not get the moisture they need to thrive.

5 Effective Ways to Prevent Tree Roots From Growing Above Ground

Luckily, there are plenty of solutions to prevent tree roots from wreaking havoc on your yard. While you can’t stop trees from growing roots (they’ve got to do their thing), you can certainly manage them to minimize the damage.

1. Mulch, Mulch, Mulch!

Mulching is like a magic blanket for your tree roots. By adding a thick layer of mulch around your tree, you help regulate the soil’s temperature and moisture levels, both of which can keep roots from growing above ground. Mulch also acts as a natural barrier, preventing roots from pushing through the soil surface.

I’ve found that wood chips, bark, and even shredded leaves work best, but be careful not to pile the mulch up too high around the tree trunk. You want to cover the roots, not suffocate them. A 3-4 inch layer of mulch should do the trick. If you get carried away and pile it up too high, you could end up with a rot problem. So, moderation is key!

2. Soil Aeration

Sometimes, the soil is too compacted to let the roots grow freely. Soil aeration is one of the best ways to give your tree roots more room to breathe. By poking holes in the ground, you allow air, water, and nutrients to penetrate deeper into the soil. This makes it easier for the roots to grow downward rather than upward.

I like to use a soil aerator, which is a tool that helps break up compacted soil. If you’ve got a large tree or multiple trees in your yard, you might want to consider renting a powered aerator, as it will make the job a lot easier. Be sure to aerate when the ground is moist but not soaking wet—this will help the aerator do its job effectively.

3. Install Root Barriers

Root barriers are like fences for your tree’s roots. They prevent the roots from growing outward and upward, helping to guide them in the right direction. A root barrier can be made from a variety of materials, such as plastic, metal, or even concrete. These barriers can be installed around the tree, ensuring that the roots grow deeper into the ground.

When installing root barriers, make sure they’re buried at least 18 inches deep, depending on the type of tree. For shallow-rooted trees, you might be able to go a little deeper, while deeper-rooted trees will need a longer barrier.

4. Proper Watering Techniques

One of the biggest causes of roots growing above ground is stress, particularly from dehydration. When a tree doesn’t get enough water, it may start to push roots above the ground in an effort to find moisture.

To combat this, ensure your tree is getting enough water, especially during dry spells. Trees generally need about an inch of water per week, but you might need to increase this amount during hot months. Try watering deeply but infrequently rather than shallow and frequent watering. This encourages the roots to grow deeper into the soil, where they’ll be more secure.

5. Prune with Care

While pruning is an essential part of tree care, over-pruning can actually cause the tree to respond by pushing out more roots above ground. This happens because the tree is stressed and trying to compensate for lost branches by growing additional roots.

To avoid this, make sure you’re not cutting more than one-third of the tree’s branches at once. If you need to effectively prune tree, try to do it in stages, giving the tree time to adjust to each cut. I’ve found that doing this slowly helps reduce the stress and prevents a spike in the development of surface roots.

Final Thoughts

Keeping tree roots from growing above ground can be a bit tricky, but with the right care, you can protect both your tree and your yard. It’s all about understanding the needs of your tree and making proactive choices to guide its growth. Whether you’re mulching, aerating, or installing barriers, the goal is to give your tree the space it needs to thrive while also protecting your landscape from unwanted roots.

In the end, it’s not about fighting nature but about working with it. Think of it like teaching your tree to follow the rules of your landscape without stifling its natural growth. With a little patience and the right techniques, you’ll have a yard that’s both beautiful and functional—no rogue roots in sight!

So, what’s your experience with tree roots? Have you tried any of these techniques before? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear your thoughts!