Dawn Redwood

[BonsaiNewbie2042]

I have a question about how long I can have a Dawn Redwood in my yard before the roots extend far enough to cause damage. I want to let it grow in the ground for at least a few years.

 

[Gabler]

Welcome! What's your question?

 

[BonsaiNewbie2042]

Welcome! What's your question?

Im wanting to plant in my yard to allow them freedom to grow. I’ve heard that I need to be careful of roots damaging driveways, foundation etc. they won’t be extremely close to these things, but wanted to ask just to be safe. How long could I be able to leave them planted in the ground before the roots gets to a concerning length? I’m hoping to be able to leave them for 2 or three years. I know they are extremely fast growing. Thoughts?

 

[dbonsaiw]

Not sure if this answers your question, but I planted a DR a few feet from my garage without giving it any thought and after 2 years I don’t have any (apparent) issues from the roots.

 

[Shibui]

2 or 3 years should not be any problem to infrastructure. DR may grow relatively quick but it's not Jack's beanstalk.
If you still have concerns you could chop roots with a spade each year which may also help develop better ramified lateral roots as well as deterring roots going too far.

 

[rockm]

Unless you plan to leave it in place for a decade, root damage to structures probably isn't in the cards. Damage to structures from tree roots takes a while. Roots have to get big enough to push things around as they grow in length and more importantly in diameter. Three to five years isn't going to be an issue.

 

[Betula1]

Most tree root damage is caused to buildings occurs where mature tree roots extract moisture from underlying shrinkable clay subsoil, causing subsidence and then cracking of walls and footings. It mainly depends on how close to structures, do they have shallow inadequate foundations, what soil type ie is it on shrinkable clay, and how long you plan leaving it in the ground.
From what you describe only 2- 3 years is nothing to worry about!