Fir tree root spread distance

nashtree · 19th May 2011, 01:50 PM

We currently have a fir tree approx 100ft tall; our municipality is planning on putting in sidewalks. I'm concerned that they will damage the root structure. Can anyone advise how deep, or wide a normal root structure for a fir tree in british columbia might run?

Brent Ferris · 19th May 2011, 04:21 PM

Most conifers have fairly shallow spreading root systems,. A rough rule of thumb is growth is 3 ft in radius per inch diameter. So a 10 inch tree, estimate roots extend out 30 ft in all directions,

Hope the folks in Victoria care more about trees. In Toronto, Public Works just chops thru all the roots, and then wonder why the tree fell over.

If the crew does not excavate the soil, nor compact a large area, roots and tree will prob be ok -- but that seldom happens,. Good Luck.

19th May 2011, 01:50 PM	#1
nashtree I'm new here so be nice Join Date: May 2011 Location: victoria bc Posts: 1	Fir tree root spread distance We currently have a fir tree approx 100ft tall; our municipality is planning on putting in sidewalks. I'm concerned that they will damage the root structure. Can anyone advise how deep, or wide a normal root structure for a fir tree in british columbia might run?

19th May 2011, 04:21 PM	#2
Brent Ferris Veteran Heritage Status Join Date: Jun 2010 Location: Toronto, Ontario, Canada Posts: 1,555	Re: Fir tree root spread distance Most conifers have fairly shallow spreading root systems,. A rough rule of thumb is growth is 3 ft in radius per inch diameter. So a 10 inch tree, estimate roots extend out 30 ft in all directions, Hope the folks in Victoria care more about trees. In Toronto, Public Works just chops thru all the roots, and then wonder why the tree fell over. If the crew does not excavate the soil, nor compact a large area, roots and tree will prob be ok -- but that seldom happens,. Good Luck. __________________ My business: Tree Pruning and Removals -- Strump Removals -- Advice -- Consulting -- Arborist Reports Consulting Forester If you want an honest opinion, call Brent Ferris...because, Trees want to Live Too ! We do great jobs, even in small yards. Free Estimates Oakville to Oshawa - North to Bradford (Will travel further if cost of travelling covered) Email -- treeshaveneeds@3web.com Cell 416-460-5704

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