Invasive Tree Roots to Avoid in Your Garden: A List of the Top 18

If you have trees in your garden, you may be unaware that some species have the potential to cause major problems to your plumbing and sewer system. Invasive tree roots can enter pipes, causing blockages and even bursting them. As a homeowner, it is important to know which trees to avoid planting to prevent these issues. In this article, we will discuss the top 18 invasive tree roots to avoid in your garden.

Understanding the Problem

Tree roots seek out sources of water and nutrients, and unfortunately, your plumbing and sewer system may provide just that. Once roots have entered your pipes, they can grow rapidly and cause blockages that result in slow drains or even complete backups. Roots can also cause pipes to crack or break, leading to costly repairs.

Top 18 Invasive Tree Roots to Avoid

Weeping Willow – The aggressive roots of this tree can quickly invade pipes and cause significant damage.
American Elm – These trees have been known to break through sewer pipes and cause blockages.
Silver Maple – The roots of this tree can grow quickly and aggressively, infiltrating pipes and causing damage.
Poplar – While these trees grow quickly and provide shade, their roots can easily invade pipes and cause blockages.
Birch – These trees have shallow root systems that can infiltrate pipes and cause blockages.
Ash – The roots of this tree are known to grow rapidly and cause damage to pipes.
Fig – While these trees are often grown for their fruit, their roots can cause significant damage to pipes.
Magnolia – These trees have thick roots that can infiltrate pipes and cause blockages.
Oak – The roots of this tree can grow to be quite large and cause damage to pipes.
Redwood – While these trees are often considered majestic and impressive, their roots can cause significant damage to pipes.
Australian Pine – The invasive roots of this tree can cause damage to pipes and septic systems.
Sweet Gum – These trees have aggressive roots that can invade pipes and cause blockages.
Black Walnut – The roots of this tree release a toxin that can kill nearby plants and infiltrate pipes.
Cedar – The roots of this tree can grow to be quite large and cause damage to pipes and septic systems.
Japanese Maple – While these trees are often grown for their beauty, their roots can cause significant damage to pipes.
Eucalyptus – These trees are known for their rapid growth and invasive root systems that can infiltrate pipes and cause damage.
Lombardy Poplar – These trees have invasive roots that can easily infiltrate pipes and cause blockages.
White Pine – The roots of this tree can cause damage to pipes and septic systems if planted too close.

What You Can Do To Avoid Problems

Once you have identified the problematic trees, there are several measures you can take to prevent the invasive roots from damaging your pipes. Here are some options:

Choose non-invasive trees: When selecting trees for your garden or property, choose species that are less likely to have invasive root systems. Some examples of non-invasive trees include dogwoods, redbuds, magnolias, and ornamental cherries.
Plant trees at a safe distance: If you do choose to plant an invasive tree, make sure to keep it at a safe distance from your pipes. The recommended distance varies depending on the tree species and the type of pipes you have, so consult with a professional arborist or plumber to determine the appropriate distance.
Install a root barrier: A root barrier is a physical barrier that is installed underground to prevent tree roots from infiltrating your pipes. This can be a good solution if you have existing trees that are close to your pipes. However, it is important to note that root barriers are not foolproof and may need to be replaced over time.
Regularly maintain your pipes: Regular pipe maintenance can help prevent invasive roots from causing damage. This includes regular inspections using a pipe camera to identify any potential issues before they become major problems. You can also use hydro jetting to clear out any small roots that have infiltrated your pipes.
Remove the tree: If all else fails and you are experiencing severe pipe damage, you may need to remove the invasive tree altogether. This can be a costly and time-consuming process, but it may be necessary to prevent further damage to your pipes.

In conclusion, invasive tree roots can cause major damage to your pipes, leading to costly repairs and inconvenience. By being aware of the trees with the most invasive root systems and taking preventative measures, you can protect your pipes and avoid these issues. If you suspect you may have invasive roots in your pipes, don’t hesitate to contact a professional plumber or arborist for assistance.

Conclusion

As a homeowner, it is important to consider the potential damage that certain tree species can cause to your plumbing and sewer system. By avoiding planting these invasive tree roots in your garden, you can prevent costly repairs and ensure that your pipes remain clear and functioning properly. If you suspect that invasive tree roots are causing issues with your plumbing, it is important to contact a professional plumber to assess the situation and provide necessary repairs.