Question
I planted a Ficus tree a few years ago in my very small yard without doing the research first. The roots have spread and appeared above ground and are nearing a brick/concrete patio, a neighbors retaining wall, and likely my underground sprinkler lines.  I've decided I need to cut it down, but have concerns about the roots.  1) If I cut it down to ground level, and do not remove underground roots, will they continue to grow and spread?  2) If I try to move it instead(I have large field behind house), how far out from the trunk should I cut roots to improve the chances of a successful move? 3) What type of tree can I plant that has a deep root system that will not harm foundations, sprinklers, patios, and walls?  The space I have is long and narrow, only 10-12 feet (5-6 on each side) between retaining wall and patio, 25-30 feet long.

Any advise would be helpful.
Laurie Herrin
El Cajon, CA  

Answer
Laurie,

I live in northern Indiana and have never planted a Ficus in the ground. It is not my area of expertise.  This question is best answered by an nurseryman or arborist in your area of southern California, who may have had experience with Ficus.  I am sure there are nurseries in El Cajon area, look in the yellow pages and call several to get several opinions. There opinions over the phone should be free of charge. If they offer to come to your home ask if they are offering a free estimate?

If you cut it to the ground but leave even a small stump it will try to send up new growth and the roots will continue to grow. If you dig it out I suspect you would need a rootball that is at least a couple of feet around. Then I would suggest that you also prune the top of the tree when planting it in the field then it should survive. Ficus trees are very resillient. I grow ficus trees as bonsai trees in small pots and that is the length of my experience with ficus. You might check the yellow pages or ask around if their is a bonsai club in your area. If you can contact someone in a bonsai club they may be willing to dig the tree up for you if you allow them to take the tree to turn into a bonsai.

As for suggestions of what to plant to replace it that is a good question for a local nurseryman or arborist. Or check with friends and neighbors about what they have planted in small yards and their experiences.  

Good luck.
Darlene