Cypresses are shallow-rooted plants in which the root system develops several main roots and a multitude of smaller secondary roots over time. It is therefore important that the trees are planted at a sufficient distance from walls, paths and neighboring properties.
What distance should cypress trees be from walls and paths?
Cypresses are shallow-rooted trees whose root system is extensive and develops several main roots and numerous secondary roots. Sufficient planting distance from walls, paths and neighboring properties is ensured if at least 1 to 1.5 meters distance is maintained.
Cypresses have shallow roots
Cypresses are shallow-rooted trees. The roots do not go very deep into the soil, but they spread below the ground.
While the rule of thumb for deciduous trees is that the root ball is approximately the circumference of the tree crown, things are a little different for cypresses. Here the crowns are usually quite narrow, so that the root system extends beyond their circumference.
Maintain sufficient planting distance from walls and paths
Over time, the roots of the cypress become stronger and many small secondary roots emerge. The secondary roots penetrate small holes in the masonry and can cause significant damage to a house wall, wall or foundation. This can be particularly problematic with hedges, as they are planted very densely. The roots then often spread even more.
The main roots can become very thick, lifting slabs of garden paths or pavement. Cracks also appear in foundations and walls when the cypress roots become too dense and strong. In some cases, the roots even disrupt utilities.
It is therefore important to maintain sufficient planting distance
- Garden paths
- Streets
- Walls
- Foundations
- Supply lines
- Neighboring properties
on to avoid later trouble. There should be at least one meter, preferably 1.50 meters, 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 cypresses.
Before planting a cypress or cypress hedge, find out from your municipality which regulations apply locally. This allows many neighborhood disputes to be avoided from the outset.
Tip
Because cypress trees develop a strong root system over time, they are difficult to transplant. With older trees there is a high risk that the roots will be damaged beyond repair. You should only transplant trees that have not been in place for more than four years.
