Rowans don't have very deep roots, but the roots grow very quickly in the first few years. If they are in an unfavorable location, they can damage underground cables and pipes. That's why mountain ash trees should only be planted in the garden with a root barrier.
How deep do rowan trees have roots and how can you protect them in the garden?
Row ash trees have a shallow, deep root system that spreads rapidly in the first few years and can damage underground cables or pipes. Therefore, they should be planted in the garden with a root barrier at least 80 cm deep and kept at least 1 meter away from pipes and other plants.
Aggressive root system
Row ash or rowan trees have a sinking root system that can run very shallowly beneath the surface.
A dense network of small roots forms between the main roots and initially spreads out strongly. In the following years, both the tree and its roots grow much more slowly.
If you plant a rowanberry in the garden, you should ensure there is enough distance from pipes, cables and other plants.
Create a root barrier
In order to prevent the roots of the rowan tree from spreading too much and thereby endangering pipes and other plants, it helps to create a root barrier.
It should be buried at least 80 centimeters deep. The distance to the trunk should be at least one meter, but preferably 1.5 meters.
When keeping rowan berries with a root barrier, it may be necessary to water the tree more often and fertilize it occasionally. Otherwise, the tree will not be adequately supplied with nutrients due to the restricted root growth. It is best to spread a blanket of mulch (€29.00 on Amazon) on the tree disc, as this keeps the soil moist and fertilizes it at the same time.
Remove side shoots
Rowberry trees often sprout seedlings near the trunk. As a result, they quickly become a nuisance in the garden because the tree then becomes too overgrown.
Remove side shoots immediately to prevent uncontrolled spread of the tree and roots.
The best time to pull out side shoots is shortly after a downpour. The seedlings are easy to pull out of the moist soil.
Transplanting mountain ash
Make sure the mountain ash is in a good location right from the start. When transplanting, it becomes apparent that it is almost impossible to get all the roots out of the ground.
You should therefore only move a rowan tree while the tree is still small.
Tips & Tricks
The roots of the mountain ash love consistent moisture, but cannot tolerate waterlogging. Make sure the soil is permeable and protect the soil from drying out with a layer of mulch.
