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G6R&$ P.eventing COllslmclion D8m8ge to Tree. 5/\ 5/0:1 654 I three times the width of branches (see Figure 1). Protecting roots within the dripline of the tree is most critical, but damage to r?Ots outside the dripline on only one side oftbe tree may remove one-third or more of the tree's roots (see Figure 2) ~ ,- " s. . \' ~ i. J ot p' 1 .. 'it-. j .. * .... <iiI. (; Ii .. .... 'il' ""'.. "'t.'" . ..., I'" ~ --- ~- ~ .. . . . Figure 1. Tree roots are not mirror images of the top branch structure (lower figure). While some trees do have deep tap roots, most do not. Roots spread to where soil conditions provide adequate moisture, aeration and nutrients. Typically, about 85 percent of a tree's roots are within the top 18 inches of soil (upper figure). - .. ....... , ....... ,- ;lt~ 1 ..... _ '....'.. -..... 1II'fItW \ _",.. --...) ~ ... "'",- -- ,,"... ........ ~ .... ~ ~ "'Wl:ltv............-.....,., .... I ~ ';;'"42" C-:' Figure 2. Roots typically spread out from two to three times the width of the branches. However, the essential roots are usually considered to be within the dripline, which is the area underneath the tree's branches. Erect a fence at the dripline or farther out, ifpossible, to prevent damage from excavation, soil compaction or &tockpilmg of soil over roots. It is easier to save groups of trees than individual ones. Build a fence around the dripline of the outside trees to keep construction machinery away from the grove. Remove protective fences only after all construction work is done, including fInal grading and smoothing of the site. Carefully remove unwanted trees Be careful removing unwanted trees. A tree being removed might fall on and injure one of the trees you plan to save. If possible, remove unwanted trees when none of the trees have leaves. When trees are in fu1l1eaf, sudden removal of nearby trees is a shock and can cause sunburn to other trees. http://m\wXlension.missouri.edu/explore!agguides/hortlg(}6 885 .htm Page 3 0