Question
We live in Omaha, Nebraska and have put river rock as a decorative ground cover under a 30 ft. spruce in our front yard.  Neighbors tell us that the rock will reflect heat into the tree and eventually cause it to die.  Is there any truth to this?

Answer
I'm not positive but it sounds plausible. Rock will certainly retain heat causing the earth to be warmer below the tree. I suppose it depends on how low the branches are. Perhaps you could mix some ferns or other perennials in with the rock to absorb some of the heat.



Sean J Murphy, LA,ISA, LEED AP
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