Is the walnut tree shallow or deep-rooted? What should you take into account when planting in this context? These are frequently asked questions regarding the root of the walnut tree. In this guide we answer these “FAQs”.
Is the walnut tree shallow or deep-rooted?
The walnut tree is a deep-rooted tree with a strongly developed taproot that grows deep into the ground. When planting, sufficient distance should be maintained from buildings to prevent the roots from blowing up masonry walls.
Walnut tree is a taproot tree
The walnut is a deep-rooted plant with a taproot. That means:
- The root of the walnut tree penetrates deep into the earth.
- She does this like a stake.
Here is a general definition of the taproot: It is a root that develops from the radicle to the main root and grows vertically into the ground (soil). First-order lateral roots arise from the taproot. These extend diagonally or horizontally from the taproot.
The taproot is therefore part of a heterogeneous root system. In technical jargon it is called allorhizia.
Note: The taproot of the walnut tree is extremely strongly developed. It significantly exceeds the lateral roots in terms of length and diameter.
Excursus: Characteristics of shallow-rooted organisms
To understand the difference between deep and shallow roots, here is a short explanation of the latter:
A shallow-rooted plant is a plant (such as a tree) with roots that do not dig very deeply into the earth. The exact opposite is the case. The roots spread out in a plate shape in the upper soil layers.
Examples of shallow roots:
- many species of spruce trees
- Banks Pine
- Douglas fir
- hornbeam
- Willows
Interesting: If the soil conditions are poor, shallow-rooted plants cannot find optimal support, which in turn puts them at risk of being thrown by wind in strong storms. But: If the soil is suitable and/or there are suitable rocks nearby, shallow-rooted plants often develop good root systems and grow on entire pieces of rock. Then in most cases they are stable.
Walnut tree as a heart root
The walnut tree is also considered a heartroot. This is a kind of intermediate form.
The root of a heart root is characterized by a compact growth and few but strong lateral roots as well as a hemispherical growth habit.
Practical tips
What does the root type of the walnut tree mean in practice?
The roots of a walnut tree are as expansive as the crown. For this reason, it is essential when planting to leave sufficient distance from buildings (including basements).
Note: Some hobby gardeners have had the experience that the roots of their walnuts have “bored” completely through the outside cellar wall. You should definitely avoid such masonry blasting. So plan at least twelve to 15 meters away from houses when planting your walnut.
If your walnut tree is in a strategically unfavorable location, you must try to dig up the plant and replant it.
Tip
The fact that the walnut tree has developed into a deep-rooted tree can be logically deduced. It originally comes from dry regions. In order to be able to fill up with enough water, the walnut had to go deep into the earth. Thanks to these deep roots, a walnut tree is now able to cope with long periods of drought anywhere.