What happens to the roots when a tree is cut down?

Tree roots are an essential part of a tree's structure, providing support and anchoring the tree in the soil. But what happens to tree roots after a tree is cut down? Do they continue to grow, or do they eventually die off? The expert Dallas arborists from J P Tree Services LLC explain what happens below, offering insight into why it’s important to let pros perform tree removal and other tree care services.
What happens to the roots when a tree is cut down?
When a tree is cut down, the roots will continue to grow for a short period. This is because the roots still have stored energy and nutrients from the tree's leaves. However, as time goes on, the roots will begin to die off. Without a tree to provide energy and nutrients, the roots will eventually decompose and disappear.
The rate at which the roots decompose depends on various factors, such as the type of tree, soil conditions, and weather. For example, hardwood trees like oak and maple have deeper roots that take longer to decompose than shallow-rooted trees like pine and spruce.
Are dead tree roots a problem?
While the roots will eventually die off, they can cause problems in the meantime. As the roots decompose, they can create air pockets in the soil, which can cause sinkholes and other safety hazards. As mentioned, tree roots don’t die immediately. They can also continue to grow and damage sidewalks, driveways, and other nearby structures.
To prevent these issues, it's essential to remove the tree stump and its roots after a tree is cut down. Stump grinding is the most effective and efficient way to remove a tree stump, as it grinds the stump and its roots into small pieces that can be used for mulch or removed from the site.
Tree Root Removal in Dallas
So yes, tree roots will continue to grow for a short period after a tree is cut down, but they will eventually die off. Just remember, because they’re dying doesn't mean they are not problematic. To prevent safety hazards and structural damage, it's essential to remove the tree stump and its roots. At J P Tree Services LLC, we offer professional tree removal and stump grinding in Dallas and the surrounding areas to help ensure that your landscape is safe and beautiful. Call us at (945) 235-2029
to schedule a consultation or to learn more about our Dallas tree services.









