Tree
Surface roots
Surface roots are roots that grow at or just under the soil surface in a lawn, where they can trip people, block mowers and show above the grass.
Surface roots are tree roots you can see or feel at ground level. University of Wisconsin Extension says they not only affect the appearance of the lawn, but they can make mowing difficult and create tripping hazards.
Almost any large, mature tree can develop them, though poplar, willow and silver maple are most likely to. Compacted or poorly drained soil pushes roots up toward the surface.
After a stump is ground, large surface roots may remain. They are not part of the stump itself, so a company may price them separately. Root cutting can harm a living tree, so ask first. See exposed surface roots. Related terms are lateral roots and soil compaction.