Question
carrotwood tree
QUESTION: My parents live in Glendale California, and have planted a fast growing tree, Cupaniopsis anacardioides, or carrotwood, in front of their home five years ago. It is located in a good spot, in my opinion, but my father is concerned about the possibility of it's roots invading the sewer pip below it.
Is this tree likely to cause a sewer blockage? Their system consists of clay pipes with interlocking pieces dating from the 50's. My father wants to put a birch tree there, as he says the roots are more shallow.
Is there any tree that wouldn't invade such a pipe, or is a birch a better choice?
ANSWER: Dear Joan,
Father knows best.... the Cupaniopsis is indeed an invasive species and may very well compromise the lines. I would agree that the Birch is a better choice.
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QUESTION: Would it be better to wait till fall to plant three new birch trees like we do in the Northwest where I live (Ashland, OR)?
We do that so the tree can winter and develop a root system before the heat taxes the tree in summer?
ANSWER: You can plant now provided you ensure adequate watering.
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QUESTION: Thank you, Gina, for your humorous and excellent advice!
My dad is 98 and was determined to get those beeches in there, as there had been some before that he said had rotted. He had to remove them and planted the carrotwood tree as he said " they couldn't find any beeches" to replant.
Is there any reason the beeches would have rotted? I want to help find him some this time and avoid any problems.
Thank you again, Joan
AnswerJoan, there's really no way for me to be able to tell you why the prior Beeches had rotted. With that said, though, varieties become stronger and hardier through hybridization over the years so unless there's an obvious reason why the old one (pre-Carrotwood) failed, I don't see why he cant try them again. BUT!!! Be aware that Beech has an invasive root system which is the very thing you were trying to avoid.
