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Root Barrier for Trees

$577.96


FREE SHIPPING
SKU MM-HDPE-18-80-100

Our root barrier for trees is designed to provide protection for your landscape against the intrusion of tree roots. The ultra-heavy-duty plastic barrier is both tear and puncture resistant and provides a durable long lasting and dependable barrier for your landscape. Available in a variety of different roll widths ranging from 18” to 48” to match the depth of nearly any tree root when placed vertically in the ground. The root barrier is shipped in long rolls providing a long span without a joint. This is an advantage as with any root barrier the joint is the weakest point where if roots were to breach the barrier it would most likely be at a joint section. However multiple rolls can be connected using the double sided HPDE seam tape which is installed with a 4’ overlap to greatly reduce and nearly eliminates the chance of roots passing through.

The plastic root barrier is made in the USA.

 

Note: Our HDPE plastic is only available in roll widths up to 60 inches.

Please note that we are unable to provide custom roll lengths.

Product Info

  • Model: HPDE
  • Material: High Density Polyethylene (HDPE)
  • Size: Various
  • Free Shipping
  • Need a written quote? Request Online
  • Questions?  Call (800) 604-5537

Product Benefits

  • Waterproof
  • Commercial Grade
  • UV Resistant
  • Non-Biodegradable
  • Will Not Rot or Mildew
  • Resistant to Rodent and Insect Damage
  • 100 Year Material Lifespan
  • Made in the USA

SHIPPING TIME

  • All HDPE rolls ship for free (standard ground, see map)
  • Call: (800) 604-5537 for pricing and shipping questions.

    Shipping estimates shown on the map pertain to this specific product only. HDPE orders typically ship same day if the order is placed before 12:00 noon CST. Transit times displayed in the map are listed in business days, and are approximate. Transit times are subject to stock levels at regional warehouses.  The day that the order is shipped is not counted as a transit day.

    Stratagrid Shipping Map
    HDPE Seam Tape
    HDPE Seam Tape

    HDPE Seam Tape

    $24.99

    The Factors Involved In The Depth of A Tree's Root Growth Is Important

    If you think the depth of a tree's roots is only important to the tree and nature, you'd be wrong. The depth of your tree's roots will dictate the health of your tree and will allow you to protect your plumbing and utility systems from possible damage.

    In general, tree roots will grow within 60 cm, or 23.62 inches, from the top of the soil. It's highly unlikely the roots will grow more than 6 feet deep as that would prevent the trees from getting the oxygen, nutrients, and moisture they need. That said, there are some trees like the Wild Fig whose roots have recorded depths of 70 meters or 229 feet, but that's rare. In this article, you will learn about the growth of a tree's roots.

    Tree Roots Cracking Sidewalk

    Tree Roots Causing Sidewalk Damage

    How Long Does It Take For A Tree's Roots To Grow?

    In most cases, a tree's roots will grow to approximately 1.5 times the diameter of the tree's crown. That said, they can grow even more especially if they have a need for nutrients, moisture, and if the condition of the soil allows for better growth. In some cases, individual roots can grow more than 4 times the diameter of the tree's crown.

    What Trees Have The Deepest Roots?

    The Shepherd's tree grows in the Kalahari desert and has recorded root depths up to 70 meters or 229 ft.

    The Fig tree has incredibly deep roots. It was first discovered near Ohrigstad in the Echo Caves. The tree's roots were over 121 meters or 396.978 ft!

    Other trees with deep roots include White Oaks, Japanese Pagoda, Hickories, Black Gum, Sweet Gum, Walnuts, Cultivars, and Hornbeam.

    Are Trees Roots As Long As the Tree Is Tall?

    No, most tree roots, no matter the tree's height, will grow within 60 cm or 23.62 inches from the soil's surface. In some cases, the growth will depend on the species of the tree. For instance, drought-tolerant trees have a deeper root system as well as the condition of the soil they grow in. In other words, soil compaction matters more than the tree's height. Throwing out myths, the height of the tree does not come into play when discussing deep roots.

    What Factors Are Involved In Root Growth?

    There are several factors that come into play when it comes to root growth:

    Spacing

    Trees that are planted closer together are more likely to have less expansive roots. This is usually caused by competition from nearby trees.

    Structure Of Soil

    If a tree grows in soil that has bedrock near the surface, it will probably have shallow roots. It can develop wider roots as it searches for nutrients making up for the lack of depth.

    The Compaction Of Soil

    Roots have a rougher time trying to grow through compacted soil. Trees that grow in this kind of soil will have thicker roots but the roots will be fewer in number.

    The Location Of Moisture

    If there is a moisture source, trees will grow in that direction. In general, they are more likely to grow toward burst pipes and more likely to avoid dry areas such as the foundations of homes.

    The Location Of The Barrier

    If you place a barrier near a tree, it will hamper its growth. One of these barriers is the artificial root barriers, another includes rocks.

    The Benefits That Come With Understanding Tree Roots

    If you are concerned about the depth and/or length of a tree's roots, there are some things you need to know:

    Avoid Foundation Damage

    If you have a tree that has an aggressive root system, it should be planted a good distance away from your house. Planting it too close to a house could cause extensive damage.

    If you know the root spread of a specific species of tree, you can figure out the ideal planting distance. Having this information can go a long way to prevent tree roots from growing under your house or keep you safe from foundation problems.

    You Can Concentrate On The Best Gardening Spots -

    If you understand tree roots, you can save a lot of time and energy choosing the right spot for gardening. The onslaught of tree root systems is really bad for your garden. These roots will deprive your plants of nutrients and moisture and can lead to very poor plant health and yields.

    Planting Tree at Park

    Tree Planting in Progress

    Once you understand how far a tree's roots can grow, you can figure out the safest distance to install your garden. Also, you can figure out whether installing a root barrier is a good idea or not.

    Having knowledge regarding a tree's root system will help you find the perfect place for your plants.

    Good For Planning Construction Or Installation Projects -

    If you injure or harm a tree's roots it can cause the tree's health to diminish or worse yet, it can kill the tree. Always remember, roots are critical to a tree's survival.

    If you are preparing to take on a construction or installation project, it's a really good idea to know how far a tree's roots will stretch or travel. Understanding this can help to reduce the chances of accidentally killing the trees on your property.

    It's Critical To Keep Your Trees Healthy

    If you know how deep a tree's roots will spread it can be beneficial in helping you calculate how to increase the tree's health. On top of that, having the knowledge needed for root growth will help you decide the perfect spacing needed for the trees. The right spacing will reduce competition among trees which can actually go a long way toward guaranteeing healthier trees.

    Are There Trees That Do Not Have Invasive Roots?

    Trees with invasive roots can be a big problem. They can damage your foundation, tear up your plumbing, and starve other plants in your garden.

    If you are planning on placing trees near your home or near your garden, you should select trees with non-invasive roots.

    Here is a list of trees that offer non-invasive roots:

    • Dwarf Korean lilac
    • Eastern redbud
    • Japanese maple
    • Crape myrtle
    • Cornelian cherry dogwood
    • Adams crabapple
    • Boxwoods
    • Glossy abelia
    • Hollywood juniper
    • Chinese pistache
    • Trident maple
    • Amur maple
    • Dwarf orange tree
    Finishing a Tree Planting

    Planting a Tree in Backyard

    Can I Control The Growth Of A Tree's Roots?

    As already mentioned, a tree's roots are critical for the tree's survival. That said, roots can be an annoyance and also become destructive. Knowing how to control their growth can be a saving grace.

    Below is a list of different ways which can help you control the growth of your trees' roots:

    Installing A Root Barrier

    These barriers work by creating a surface where roots can get through. Then the barrier will deflect the growth of the roots away from areas that you want to be protected from the roots.

    Cutting Roots

    If you have roots that have already taken over, you can cut them off. However, you must show extreme care as some trees are very sensitive to their roots being cut back. Cutting off even the smallest section of roots can kill the tree.

    Cutting off some tree roots should only be handled by a tree expert/arborist or under the guidance of these experts.

    Tree Removal

    If you have suffered from several root issues, dealing with the roots any longer might not be worth it. Having the tree removed might be your only option. You can always replace it with a tree that has non-invasive roots. Again, if it's a large tree, hire an expert to take the tree down. You could harm yourself or other people on your property.