Mountain ash does not have very deep roots, but the roots grow very quickly in the first few years. In an unfavorable location, they can damage underground lines and pipes. For this reason, mountain ash should only be planted in the garden with a root barrier.

Aggressive root system

Mountain ash or rowan trees have a sinker root system that can run very shallowly below the surface.

A dense network of small roots is formed between the main roots, which initially spreads strongly. In subsequent years, both tree and roots grow much more slowly.

If you plant a rowanberry in the garden, you should make sure there is enough distance to pipes, cables and other plants.

Create root barrier

Creating a root barrier helps to prevent the roots of the mountain ash from spreading too much and thereby endangering pipes and other plants.

It should be buried at least 80 centimeters deep. The distance to the trunk should be at least one meter, but better 1.5 meters.

When keeping rowan berries with a root barrier, it may be necessary to water the tree more often and to fertilize it occasionally. Otherwise, the tree will not be adequately supplied with nutrients due to the restricted root growth. It is best to spread a layer of mulch over the tree grate, as this keeps the soil moist and fertilizes it at the same time.

Remove side shoots

Rowan trees often sprout seedlings near the trunk. As a result, they quickly become a nuisance in the garden because the tree then overgrows everything.

Remove side shoots immediately to prevent uncontrolled spread of tree and roots.

The best time to pull out side shoots is just after a downpour. From the moist soil, the seedlings are easily pulled out.

Transplant mountain ash

Make sure the mountain ash is in a good location right from the start. At the latest when transplanting, it becomes apparent that it is almost impossible to get all the roots out of the ground.

You should therefore only transplant a rowan tree while the tree is still small.

tips and tricks

The roots of the mountain ash love even moisture, but do not tolerate waterlogging. Provide a permeable soil and protect the soil from drying out with a mulch layer.

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