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Protecting tree roots

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Posted by florrie2 7 (My Page) on
Thu, Mar 6, 08 at 8:29

Hello everyone: My house is located in "unimproved wilderness" in an oak-hickory forest in rural Maryland. Not much will grow there, some ferns and astilbe, geraniums, etc. I can't put in hosta because of the deer, so selections are few. I'd like to put in a small patio of slate squares that I plan to lay on top of the soil (perhaps w/some mulch underneath for stability. The question is, will I damage the tree roots by adding this material on top? I plan NOT to disturb the soil, just even it out for the slate pieces. How close can I get to the tree trunks without damage? These are HUGE trees, with some understory dogwoods, fringe tree, etc.

Thanks
Florrie

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RE: Protecting tree roots

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If you can use sand. Mulch will make the slate unstable to walk on when it rots. Tamp the sand down and if you like mix in some mortar, dry, then set the slate and then water. If you don't interefere or cut the roots there should be no problem. It would be nice if you could run a border around the patio to keep the slate in place. Some steel edging perhaps.

Here is a link that might be useful: Propagating Perennials

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RE: Protecting tree roots

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Thanks, Bullthistle. I'm concerned that the slate slabs will suffocate the feeder roots, which is why I chose mulch. If I used mortar and water, wouldn't that make cement? Is it OK to cement my tree roots?

Thanks, Florrie

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RE: Protecting tree roots

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How close to the surface are the roots? If possible 4-6 inches of sand would provide a good base for the slate. Water will get through the joints so you should be okay.

I'm in an oak, hickory, pine "wilderness" in New York and I grow tons of plants.

 
 

 

 


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