How to Deal with Surface Tree Roots in Your Utah Yard

How to Deal with Surface Tree Roots

Surface tree roots are a common complaint for Utah homeowners with mature trees. Roots push above the soil, creating tripping hazards, making mowing difficult, and potentially damaging sidewalks. However, roots are essential to tree health and improper treatment can damage or kill the tree.

Why Roots Surface in Utah

Clay soil compaction, erosion on slopes, rocky or caliche subsoil layers, and tree species all contribute. Silver maple, cottonwood, willow, and elm are most prone to surface roots in Utah.

What NOT to Do

Never cut surface roots — this removes 5-25% of the root system and can destabilize the tree. Never cover with more than 2 inches of soil — this suffocates roots. Never pave or concrete over roots. Never drive heavy equipment over root zones.

Safe Solutions

Best option: convert the area to a mulched bed with 2-3 inches of organic mulch extending to the dripline. Second option: plant shade-tolerant groundcovers like vinca minor, pachysandra, or lamium between roots. Third option: carefully add 1-2 inches of sandy loam as a last resort. Only a certified arborist should prune roots.

Sidewalk and Driveway Damage

Ramp the concrete surface, install bridge-style sidewalk sections that span over roots, or relocate the walkway. Do not remove the tree to fix a sidewalk.

Prevention

Plant trees with less aggressive roots: Kentucky coffeetree, bur oak, hackberry, Japanese tree lilac. Avoid silver maple, cottonwood, and willow in small yards.