Cypresses are shallow roots
Cypresses belong to the group of shallow roots. The roots do not go very deep into the earth, but spread out below the soil.
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- Find the right location for the cypress
- What is the annual growth rate of a cypress tree?
- Recognize and treat diseases of the cypress
While the rule of thumb for deciduous trees is that the root ball is roughly the same size as the crown of the tree, it is somewhat different for cypress trees. Here the crowns are usually quite narrow, so that the root system extends beyond their circumference.
Maintain sufficient planting distance to walls and paths
Over time, the roots of the cypress grow stronger and there are many small secondary roots. The secondary roots penetrate into small holes in the masonry and can thus considerably damage a house wall, wall or foundation. This can be particularly problematic with hedges, as these are planted very densely. The roots then often spread even more.
The main roots can become very thick, lifting up slabs of garden paths or pavement. Cracks also appear in foundations and walls if the cypress roots become too dense and strong. In some cases, the roots of utilities burst through the roof.
It is therefore essential to keep a sufficient planting distance
- Garden paths
- Streets
- Walls
- Foundations
- Supply lines
- Neighboring properties
to avoid trouble later. At least one meter, better still 1.50 meters, should be between the cypress and the walls.
Avoid trouble with the neighbors
Not every neighbor likes it when a fast-growing cypress hedge grows close to the property line. They have concerns not only about the height of the trees but also about the roots of the cypress trees.
Therefore, before planting a cypress or cypress hedge, find out from your municipality which regulations apply locally. This way, many neighborhood disputes can be avoided from the outset.
Tips
Since cypresses develop strong roots over time, it is difficult to transplant them. With older trees there is a high risk that the roots will be irreparably damaged. You should only transplant trees that have not been in place for more than four years.
