Tree roots do intermingle but they only occupy a relatively small proportion
of soil volume. The growth competition between woodland trees can produce
very long roots. Drawing an RPA circle for a tree in a woodland is strangely
enough, probably a fair estimation, not least because the RPA is probably at
most 50% of the root system.
If there is natural grafting it is very likely to be consistent for any given
grouping, and there is no reason to suppose that removing a tree would
adversely affect neighbouring trees.
Jim
-----Original Message-----
From: uktc-request@xxxxxx.tree-care.info
[mailto:uktc-request@xxxxxx.tree-care.info] On Behalf Of Jasper Fulford-Dobson
Sent: 03 March 2021 09:45
To: UK Tree Care
Subject: neighbouring tree roots and RPAs
Has anyone else heard of the assertion that the roots of neighbouring trees
present a significant physical barrier to each other with regards to the
shape/extent/pattern of RPAs?
If there is any merit in this theory and how would it work for trees in
closely spaced groups or woodlands?
My brief investigations into any science or common sense behind this has
concluded the following: -
It seems to be widely accepted that roots can merge and even graft together
(inosculation) to form rigid, interlocked systems, both within a single root
system and between neighbouring trees of the same or differing species
(Graham & Bormann 1966, Epstein 1977, Basnet et al 1993, Sprugel 2011 and
Hirons 2018). Add to this the recognised theory of pathogenic transmission
between root systems together with the complex and potentially vast nature of
underground mycorrhizal associations and it becomes clear that attempting to
draw an accurate picture of the exact rooting pattern for every given tree
(particularly those in woodlands or closely spaced groups in urban sites with
myriad man made structural barriers) is pure guestimation, even for an
experienced arborist.
The narrative of the precise shape of such a polygon shaped RPA could
therefore go on ad-infinitum right?
Any advice or feedback gratefully received.
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