Question From:
Irene Dunstan in Stratton, Perth WA
Nature of problem:
neighbours 25 yrs old ficus roots are pushing my fence over what can I do to stop the roots from growing further they are already taken over a fair bit of my garden
Type of Plant (if known):
ficus benjamina ??
Symptoms of Plant Illness (please try NOT to diagnose your problems yourself):
n/a
Soil Type (e.g. sandy, clay or loam) OR Potting Mix Type:
sandy
How often do you water the plant:
n/a
How many hours of sunlight does the plant get each day:
n/a
What type of plant is it:
n/a
How long since you planted it:
approx 25 yrs
Have you fertilised? If so, with what and when:
n/a
Is the plant indoors or outdoors:
outdoors
What other treatments have you given the plant:
n/a
Upload photo if available:
Other Comments:
Answer: Hi Irene, The law is on your side. Ficus benjamina is a nasty tree that causes enormous damage. In general, people are responsible for the nuisance (ie damage etc) that their trees cause. Perhaps you should contact your neighbours, mention the damage and ask them if they could cut the offending roots off at the fence line. They should also pay for the fence damage. It may be awkward, but ideally you should give them a friendly dated letter to this effect as well. There are root barrier products, but your neighbour should foot this bill as well. You may have recourse to a magistrate as well.
