A Gardeners Forum Forums Gardening Reference Gardening in 2006 Ficus Root Worries

About two years ago I planted about 15 ficus trees along the property line between my house and a neighbors. They were planted to provide privacy. Now, they are about 10 feet tall. However, being very new to gardening, I just learned about the problems with roots from ficus. I am concerned about them ruining our water lines, uprooting the driveway, etc. I have heard something about prunning the roots. Any suggestions? Do I need to get rid of them? HELP!

It's doubtful that they are that bad.

But, you can order tree root panels to insert in a narrow trench and then backfill.

I doubt you need deeper than the 18" panels.

Light weight and connect together.

One place that ships them is www.treetools.com - a very reliable business in Oregon.

But you should find them locally. Call the city arborist and ask who has them. Not very expensive - they are basically plastic sheets / panels.

Just place a barrier in some of the more important areas.

Thanks for the advice M.D.

Greg