[CANUFNET] Frazinus ssp. -do their roots plug drainage systems

[Mark Peterson]

Interesting question. I have never heard of this happening with Fraxinus. Tree roots usually respond to surrounding conditions - so if soil is dry roots will "look" for moisture but usually foundation drain pipes only function if the soil is saturated to begin with unlike a sewer pipe that is always full of moisture.  

Mark Peterson, BES, MLArch, OALA 
Mark Peterson & Associates, Landscape Architect
(519)743-2990        www.openspacesolutions.com
---- Original Message ----- 
  From: Tony Puddicombe 
  To: canufnet at list.web.net 
  Sent: Monday, April 07, 2008 1:08 PM
  Subject: [CANUFNET] Frazinus ssp. -do their roots plug drainage systems


   

  Does anyone have experience with Fraxinus ever having entered and plugged perforated drainage pipe? I assume the deeper the pipe the less chance of it happening. I am only familiar with Salix, and sometimes Thuja plicata, doing this. My feeling is that a tree's roots would not search out drain tiles unless it was suffering drought conditions. The water held in the soil is a much more constant supply with adequate rain.

  My client has a neighbour whose house foundations are 15 feet from the base of a 35 foot high Fraxinus. The foundations are 3 feet below finshed grade. The neighbour worries the trees roots will grow into her perimeter drain pipes. Any comments?

  Tony Puddicombe

  Arboriculture consultant PNW #0400A

   



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