Which trees have a deep root system and will not bother sidewalks, foundations and septic systems?
Red Oak, Live Oak, Burr Oak, Cedar Elm, Pines, Pecan, Chinese Pistachio all have a tap root. Many other ornamental trees such as a Flowering Pear, Yaupon Holly, Purple Leaf Plum, Red Haw, Crepe Myrtle, Crabapple, Cherry Laurel, Redbud and Vitex do not have an extensive root system and are also safe. Trees such as a Fruitless Mulberry, Ash, Sycamore, Willows and Cottonless Cottonwood are all great fast growing shade trees, but they do tend to have an invasive, shallow root system. Therefore they can be a problem when planted in town in a yard.
