Lime trees grow into impressive trees, which unfortunately can cause problems in the garden. The reason for this is the underground root system, which is difficult to control. But with a few tricks, you don't have to do without the deciduous trees.
Linden roots grow flat and wide and are very strong
root growth
Root development does not differ between small-leaved and summer lime. Tilia cordata and platyphyllos belong to the cordate family that develop an irregular root system. The root system reaches manageable extents in horizontal and vertical alignment, since the roots grow short and stocky. They branch out early and form a large proportion of fine roots, so that the entire bale thrives in a compact manner.
The heart root system:
- Mixed form of taproot and flat, spreading lateral roots
- hemispherical appearance
- cross-section reminiscent of the shape of a heart
So deeply rooted linden trees
If you want to plant a linden tree in the garden, you should be familiar with the root depths. The roots of Tilia species reach a maximum depth of 1.5 meters after 20 to 30 years if the soil consists of sandy loam. With loess loam, the expansion is somewhat more limited.
Ranges of up to 0.8 meters are common on sandy surfaces, gravel and gravel. Due to the poor ventilation, heavy clay and loam soils ensure that the trees mainly have shallow roots in the topsoil and only weakly develop the lower soil layers.
Avoid problems in the garden
Due to their medium rooting depth, lime trees have good stability in storms. However, the root system of the lime tree in the garden can quickly cause problems as soon as it comes into contact with underground pipes or the tree grows too close to sidewalks. Slabs can rise over the years as root systems spread into the ground, and damage to power cords and water pipes cannot be ruled out.
preventive measures
It is possible to cut the root ball of planted trees. To do this, the tree crown must first be thinned out and reduced in size. A radical method is the head cut. The root system is then exposed and contained. Since this intervention can negatively affect the stability of the tree, you should hire a specialist company for old trees. Cables can be shielded from the roots with root protection membranes.
keep the tree small
During the growing season, regularly remove branches from the top and outer parts of the crown. This will redirect growth to young shoots. Make sure the tree retains sufficient buds in the inner and lower canopy. In this way you prevent uncontrolled budding in unwanted places. Repeat this measure about two to three times until summer. The intervention keeps the expansion within limits, which is also noticeable in the root growth.
tips
The period between spring and early summer is recommended for this cutting measure, when the wood already has leaves.