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 Home|Parks & Recreation>Forestry Division>Tree Tips>Where Roots Grow

Where Roots Grow

We don't always appreciate how far roots can extend. Understanding how and where roots grow will help you avoid damage from trenching and construction.

A: Because roots need oxygen, the don't normally grow in the compacted oxygen-poor soil under paved streets.

B: The framework of major roots usually lies less than 8 to 12 inches below the surface.

C: Roots often grow outward to a diameter one to two times the height of the trees.
Diagram of Tree Root Structure