Tree roots are lazy. They grow best where water is easiest to get. And tree roots absolutely love fertilizer. VIEW E-EDITION. SUBSCRIBE. Support local journalism. Only 99¢ per month.

Tree root systems are seldom on the minds of forest owners, tree planters, and general dendrophiles. Roots are rarely exposed, and so misconceptions about how they grow and function can influence ...

If you cover the tree’s roots, the tree will only work harder to reach closer to the soil’s surface to reach water and nutrients. All the more reason not to cover your tree’s roots.

Carefully planting groundcover or shade-loving plants under the tree may work as long as you don’t add a thick layer of topsoil, avoid planting close to the tree trunk, and do your best to avoid ...

Roots just grow out from the tree to the furthest expanse of the branches (drip line). This myth has been around for a long time. Tree researchers have discovered the tree roots actually grow 3-4 ...