Question

Cottonwood Tree   A city worker cutting down a tree on my block saw the enclosed tree today and told me it was a cottonwood and I'd be very sorry if I didn't have it removed. As you can see it is very close to my walk and stairs.

I am not a tree person and am wondering if this is true. If so, I will do so, but I've enjoyed having the tree. But if it is going to grow so big it will be a major problem, then the sooner I get it down the better, I would think.

Thanx, Dan

Answer
I think this tree is too close to the house. Over time you may have root problems for the tree and the limbs will need to be pruned back off the house. I agree this is too large a tree to be this close to a house or walkway.

Cottonwood trees are native to the plains area of the United States, and have shallow roots to help them access water near ponds and streams. In a landscape setting, these shallow roots can damage foundations, sidewalks and water pipes, as well as create hazards in the yard. Trying to contain the roots through barriers may damage the tree. The best solution is to remove trees growing within 100 feet of homes, water pipes and sidewalks

The roots of cottonwood trees lie just beneath the soil surface. If the tree is planted near sidewalks or patios, the roots may grow underneath the concrete, eventually causing the surface to crack or buckle. In older neighborhoods, sections of the sidewalk may raise, becoming uneven. Repairs to damaged sidewalks generally are the responsibility of a municipality, although private sidewalks and patios are the responsibility of homeowners. Options include removing the tree, installing tree root barriers or cutting the roots and replacing the damaged concrete.

Sorry!!