Problem id and a question

rsina

We have a house at a lake on the VA/NC border (Between Richmond, VA and Raleigh, NC) and we are looking to add a stone patio near the tree in the pictures attached. Two questions for the experts.
1. Is the brown spot in the trunk a problem that we need to take action on? The tree has not shown any other signs of stress or problems we have noticed but I would like to know what this spot is and if there is something we should be doing for the tree.


2. If we are planning to put a stone patio off the back of the house, what is the recommended distance from the tree base that we should avoid? Is there a rule of thumb that can be followed or other concerns that need to be investigated? We had a landscape architect draw up a plan but I want to make sure we will not hurt the tree.

I look forward to a response. thanks
Rick

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Eric Frei

The brown spot needs to be inspected closely, certainly not normal.

How close can you get?

Well, run the numbers of this calculator and see what you get.

Online Calculator for TPZs and SRZs as per AS4970-2009

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Brent Ferris

Stain looks a lot like wetwood, but a local arborist should be able to identify problem for you,

The stone patio - what kind of stone are you laying? If you are looking at pierced pavement - basically thin ribs of stone with 60-80% open space -- should be able to come within -- maybe 5 feet of tree trunk., Almost every other kind of stone patio totally covers the ground, stops the entry of water, and the exchange of oxygen -- and the roots, if they are not cut by the installers, suffocate and the tree dies,

I generally find architects and landscape architects are interested in the new look, with new plants -- and existing plants.... if they survive, ok. and if not, look what else you could plant ....seems a common attitude. Not all are like this, just a lot of them,

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