Cut tree root

9 years ago

Yesterday I was working on the yard and cutting out honeysuckle roots. This one happened to be right on top of a maple or oak tree (I can't remember right now). However while cutting it I cut through a large root. I did some reading that said roots 1-2 inches in diameter or larger are support roots. This is the ONLY root I cut through.

1) Will it be ok?

2) I know roots most of the time grow back will this happen?

3) Is there a way to help the recovery? Miracle grow or something?

The break isn't more than 1mm.

The tree root is below ground and was not exposed.

Thank you!

Featured Answer

Smivies (Ontario - 5b)

9 years ago

Cutting the root is as terminal as cutting a branch would be...the gap will not be bridged (1mm might as well be a mile). The tree will compensate over time with the remaining roots.

1. How big is the tree (is one 2" root relevant?)?

2. Other roots will compensate over time

3. No & No.

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Comments (6)

edlincoln
9 years ago
Was the root cut through? How is the rest of the tree's root system...does a road or building limit it's root network on one side?

Don't use miracle grow. Maybe give it water during drought. The tree will likely grow replacement roots eventually but it wont be able to reconnect this one.
Andrew M thanked edlincoln
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Andrew M
Original Author
9 years ago
All other roots are 100% intact it was just this one root.
Andrew M
Original Author
9 years ago
Also the tree is about 1ft in diameter.
krnuttle
9 years ago
last modified: 9 years ago
If the tree is 1ft in diameter, on root nearly regardless of the size is insignificant as far as the tree goes. It there were several plants and trees in the area, it is possible that the root you cut was not even from the tree you think you damaged.

Forget it and be a little more careful next time. (Though some times you can be as careful, and still unintentionally cut things.)
Andrew M thanked krnuttle
ken_adrian Adrian MI cold Z5
9 years ago
nitrogen causes wood to rot ... so no fert anywhere near the cut ...

MAYBE the tree will be stressed... cutting off a rot .. will NOT make it hungry ...

i will yell... FERT IS NEVER A RESPONSE TO STRESS ...

its really no big deal .. way too much drama ...

ken
Andrew M thanked ken_adrian Adrian MI cold Z5