Do Elm Trees Have A Deep Root System?

Q: Maple trees always seem to have a problem with surface roots. Do elm
trees have a deep root system?

A: The type of tree you have is not as much a problem as is the hardness of the
soil around the tree. Tree roots have to breathe. If the soil is hard, initial roots
will grow just below the surface. As time goes on the roots grow bigger and
you begin to notice them bulging above the soil surface. You might be
tempted to lower the roots with an ax but this results in an open wound that
will never heal. Removing the roots entirely takes away the tree’s anchoring
system. The easiest fix is to cover the exposed root area with mulch.

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