Sissoo trees- how much space needed for roots?

20 years ago

From the research I've done, Sissoos seem to be ideal for a spot in our backyard in just about every way- fast growing, dense, relatively low litter, evergreen.

My only concern is that they are reported to have invasive roots- I'm wondering if about a 15 foot deep area between a concrete block wall and a pool would give one enough space root without tearing up the wall or the pool? The area is wide so there would be plenty of room for expansion in other directions.

Any suggestions for other options would be welcomed- we're in Gilbert. I really like the Tipu but apparently these are too messy for poolside planting, as are mesquites, from what I've read.

Featured Answer

aztreelvr

11 years ago

Any plants root will grow into a leaking or cracked irrigation system. Roots don't go seeking water, but if water is available they will follow it. There must have been moisture under the driveway/sidewalk or fences for the roots to grow there. Where Sissoos are deep watered once every two weeks in summer, once a month in winter there will be no problems. Trees planted in grass areas are another story and will form shallow roots because grass is only watered to about 4 - 6 inches deep. They grow in parking lot islands and don't seem to cause any trouble.

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Comments (8)

sharonlf
20 years ago
I've got a Sisso tree in just about the same type of spot. It has been in the ground for three years now and is getting huge. I have not noticed any problem with the roots. It was planted by a landscaper so hopefully he knew what he was doing. They do have some litter although it doesn't seem to end up in the pool.
aztreelvr
20 years ago
I wouldn't call Sissoo tree roots invasive - aggressive, yes. That's one reason why they can take our harsh climate and alkaline soils. Roots will go where water is available which is why watering deeply (to three feet) is so important for trees. You may notice that trees planted in lawn areas frequently have roots at or just above the soil surface. That's because grass receives shallow watering so naturally more tree roots will be in that zone.

The feeder roots from trees will spread laterally in a wide area and will be located in the top two feet of soil near the drip line of the tree and beyond which is why drip emitters should be placed at the drip line. Anchoring roots will be located much deeper.

Here's a link to planting tips that will get your new tree off to a good start.

You may be interested in the FREE landscape workshops that the Town of Gilbert has starting next month. Take a look at the water conservation web page (www.ci.gilbert.az.us/water) on the Town web site or call 480-503-6098.

Here is a link that might be useful: Planting trees and shrubs
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Charla Rodgers
11 years ago
My friend had a sissoo tree in his front yard and the roots grew into and destroyed his watering system (20 feet away), and started cracked the driveway (even further). They have very invasive root systems, so watch out. Our subdivision is having all of them taken out, as they were cracking the sidewalks and concrete block walls around peoples yards.
grubby_AZ Tucson Z9
11 years ago
Just FYI, here's a page from ASU on the tree:
ASU paper on the Sissoo Tree
PRO
Tree Theory
7 years ago
PRO
Tree Theory
7 years ago
Expansive tree root problems, particularly with the Indian Rosewood (Sissoo) tree. Roots can travel as far as 100 feet from the trunk.
VL Bushert
7 years ago
I know this is a really old posted question. However for those looking for an answer... don't do it. Never again will I have this tree especially if anywhere near a concrete patio, sidewalk, or house I have three one about 25-30 feet from house and pool, the next about 50 feet away and a smaller one about 20 feet from pool. We are having all three taken out because they have gone under the house messing up the foundation, pushing up pool deck and patio decking and popping up on the other side of our house. A friend hadn't theirs go through the cement wall of their pool. I've removed the small one twice, even having the roots ground and it keeps reappearing. And as to litter all three put litter in the pool. The worst is when it's in bloom all the blooms end up in the pool, also there is leaf litter.