Question
We were told that the laurel oak tree roots and the palatka tree roots had to grow up through the soil into the open so that the tree can breath.  Is this true or false.  Also our neighbor has his lawnmower blades set so low we think he hits roots when he comes near our trees that are near his property.  These are laurel oak and palatka holly tree roots.  We are on good terms with our neighbor and can talk to him about this with no problem once we hear from you.  Thank you.

Answer
False. Some species of trees that grow in water or wet soil do send up "root" for oxygen --cypress is an example. Oak trees do not. The roots can grow near the surface and over time with growth and the soil washing can be above the ground. the best thing would be add sand over the roots to keep the lawn mower away. Do not add more than 2 inches over the root. Too much will cause damage to the root. Holly trees are the same cover these roots with sand. Sand is porous and will allow water to move down where clay soil can hold the water. Using sand the grass will over time grow up through the added sand.