Root invasion is the incursion of plant roots with undesirable impacts.
Biological When the roots of neighboring plants or trees invade the area of other plants there will be decline in the health and eventual wasting of the plant whose space is being invaded.Schmid 2002, p. 33. In planted areas, periodical inspection during planting and care can allow for the discovery and removal of invading roots.Schmid 2002, p. 34.
Plumbing As plant roots spread in the search for nutrition, they will opportunistically enter irrigationWhite 2003, p. 168. or sewerRoberts, Jackson & Smith 2006, p. 395. with resulting line blockage. 5% of sewer line blockage is attributed to root invasion, though reports of line breakage due to the intrusion are rare.Roberts, Jackson & Smith 2006, p. 395. Clay and concrete pipes are more likely to be invaded then PVC pipe, with pipe joints being the typical mode of entry for roots.Roberts, Jackson & Smith 2006, p. 396.
Structural Roads, sidewalks and foundations can all suffer structural issues from tree roots.Zahniser, David (February 21, 2008) "City to pass the bucks on sidewalks?" Los Angeles Times Several methods of control have been attempted, from barriers to encouraging growth in desirable directs. Selection of plants with root systems that will not conflict with nearby structures is the most effective method of damage control.Roberts, Jackson & Smith 2006, p. 389.
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