Tree root removal

[Pandion]

Hi all, hope someone can advise. I am mostly a hedge layer but currently am building a patio for a client. The spec is to pave right up to a 40 year old silver birch tree which would require about 30% of the surface roots to be removed (some up to 4" diameter)' to a depth of 150mm.

 

Are there likely to be any tree health / stability issue that I should be concerned about?

 

Many thanks.

[Will Ayers]

Yes. The tree will definitely react in a bad way to such root pruning. I'd avoid cutting the roots as much as possible and try to eliminate any processes that alter the soil condition within 4 metres ish of the stem. If your customer is adamant that these works go ahead, recommend them a good tree surgeon to remove the tree either before or after the works as it will surely need removing soon if these works go ahead!

[doobin]

It won't like it, and that's putting it mildly. They are shallow rooted. Birch are also relatively short lived pioneer trees, fungus often gets them when they get to that sort of age. Removing a third of the roots will not help it in the slightest.

 

I'd be inclined to remove, do the patio and replant.

[armybloke]

Structural root damage - liken that to losing a few toes off each of your feet!

[treeseer]

The spec writer might consider saving money, and the tree, by dumping sand down to raise the grade.

 

A layer of compost with geotextile fabric above, before dumping sand, might be another idea.

 

Got a picture?

Edited May 21, 2014 by treeseer

[armybloke]

Build the patio on piles and above ground, ground beam, don't compromise the rooting zone or the tree gets poorly.

[Pandion]

Thanks all, makes sense. Will suggest a compromise solution and see what he says. Many thanks.