Don’s Expert Answers: root of tree heading for main watr supply pipe..Want to cut one (1) root hoping the tree will not be advesley harmed.

Question From:
Warren Reid in Malua Bay, Batemans Bay NSW

Nature of problem:
root of tree heading for main watr supply pipe..Want to cut one (1) root hoping the tree will not be advesley harmed.

Type of Plant (if known):
CRAPEMYRTAL

Symptoms of Plant Illness (please try NOT to diagnose your problems yourself):
none

Soil Type (e.g. sandy, clay or loam) OR Potting Mix Type:
clay

How often do you water the plant:
Once a fortnight

How many hours of sunlight does the plant get each day:
maximum 8 to 9 hours per day.Located in centre of lawn 8 to 9 Hrs. per day. located in centre of lawn

What type of plant is it:
Crepemyrtle

How long since you planted it:
7 years

Have you fertilised? If so, with what and when:
potash 2 years ago

Is the plant indoors or outdoors:
Outdoors

Is the plant in a pot or in the ground:
In ground

What other treatments have you given the plant:
Only Water

Upload photo if available:

Other Comments:

Answer: Hi Warren, I wouldn’t cut it. Firstly, roots almost never affect water supply pipes. They sometimes grow into drainage pipes that are incorrectly installed or are made of terracotta. If you cut that root, then dozens of crepe myrtle suckers will emerge all over the lawn for the next 50 years or so. Bad idea Warren…Don