QuestionI have a 15 year old Redwood tree (I think it's a Coast Rdwd)in my townhouse backyard in Campbell, CA. I am getting neighbor complaints (connected to homes on both sides)that this tree will become a hazard because it has shallow roots and may eventually fall on top of their houses. Should I be concerned? Is there anything I can do to remedy the situation? The tree is about 10 to 12 feet from the house. It's about 40 feet high (maybe more?)
Answer Roots are an important adaptation in the coast redwoods. Although they have no taproot, they do contain lateral roots that are very large. These roots can penetrate only 10-13 feet deep into the ground but have a very wide range (60-80 feet) that can intertwine with other trees and can also endure being covered with multiple layers of soil after they抮e mature. The redwoods?roots are also what help the trees stand strong during harsh winds. Small redwoods stand up to wind better than most other kinds of trees and large redwoods stand firm under most windy conditions as well. The problem would come if there were a lot of rain and then the wind. This type situation can bring several species of trees down. Redwoods are really too large for small yards. The roots will take over the yard.
