Why do roots show above the ground?
Tree roots grow close to the surface, and they get thicker every year. University of Wisconsin Extension says “almost any large, mature tree can develop surface roots, but species like poplar, willow and silver maple tend to be most likely to do so.”
The page gives the reasons in order. Roots need oxygen, and oxygen comes from the surface of the soil, so most roots grow sideways in the top few inches. Over the years each root thickens, “just like the trunk does,” and can break the surface. Soil that washes away over the roots has the same effect. Surface roots are the result.
| Cause | What the source says |
|---|---|
| Roots need oxygen | The majority of roots grow horizontally in the top 4 to 15 inches of soil |
| Thickening each year | Roots get thicker, like the trunk, and eventually break the surface |
| Soil conditions | “Heavy, poorly-drained or compacted soil encourages shallower root growth” |
| Erosion | Soil washing away over the root system exposes roots |
Compacted soil is a common cause in yards. The glossary entry for soil compaction explains it.
Can I cut or mow over surface roots?
Do not do either if the tree is alive. The same page says “damaging these roots, such as by hitting them with a lawn mower or trying to prune them away can seriously affect the health of the tree.”
That is why surface roots are a different problem from the roots left after stump grinding. Roots left from a stump you had ground are not the same as roots that belong to a living tree. If you are not sure which type you have, an ISA Certified Arborist can tell you.
What are the options for exposed roots?
The page gives two. Pick the one that fits the lawn.
- Cover the roots with a thin layer of topsoil. Use “just enough to cover the roots by about a half inch.” The page warns: “Applying too much soil over the roots of a tree can suffocate them and cause tree damage or death.” Since roots thicken, “after a few years” you may need another thin layer.
- Replace the grass with mulch or plants. Remove the grass and cover the area with mulch such as shredded wood, or plant a groundcover or perennials in a mulched bed. Do not damage the roots while planting, and do not use a rototiller. Dig small planting pockets by hand.
The glossary entries for topsoil and mulch cover the materials.
What if the roots are near a stump I had ground?
Roots that ran out from the old stump are different. A grinder takes the stump and the large lateral roots near it. Iowa State Extension says that is “typically down 8 to 12 inches.” The roots farther out stay and rot over several years, according to Purdue Extension. See Should you remove roots after stump grinding?.
If a stump sits next to a living tree, tell the estimator before the job. The sources we opened do not cover grinding next to a living tree’s roots. Ask about it when you request your free estimate.
What should you do before digging or mowing near roots?
Before you dig in the yard, check for buried lines. Read Before you grind: 811, tree lawns and permits. Wisconsin Extension’s warning about mowers applies to any root a blade can reach.
Read more about roots in Do roots die after stump grinding? and in the pillar Tree roots, stumps and regrowth.
Next step
If the problem is a stump that is already cut down, see the stump grinding service. Call (513) 587-6772 or send photos for a free estimate.
Frequently asked questions
Why are tree roots showing above the ground?
Wisconsin Extension says the majority of a tree's roots grow horizontally in the top 4 to 15 inches of soil, and each year they get thicker and can break the surface. Soil erosion over the roots is another cause. Heavy, poorly drained or compacted soil encourages shallower roots.
Can I cut surface roots?
Wisconsin Extension warns that damaging roots, such as by hitting them with a mower or trying to prune them away, can seriously affect the health of the tree. Ask an ISA Certified Arborist before you cut any root of a living tree.
Can I cover surface roots with soil?
Yes, lightly. Wisconsin Extension suggests topsoil over the roots by about a half inch. It warns that too much soil can suffocate roots and cause tree damage or death. Roots thicken yearly, so you may need another thin layer after a few years.
Does stump grinding remove surface roots?
A grinder removes the stump and large lateral roots, typically down 8 to 12 inches, per Iowa State. Surface roots of a living tree are different. Grinding them can harm the tree. Ask about it when you request your free estimate.
What can I put there instead of grass?
Wisconsin Extension suggests removing the grass and covering the area with mulch such as shredded wood. It also suggests planting a groundcover or perennials in a mulched bed. It says not to use a rototiller in the area.
Terms on this page
Sources
- University of Wisconsin Extension: How to Deal with Surface Tree Roots
- Purdue Extension: Question: Can I Plant Grass Over Newly Removed Stump
- Iowa State Extension: How to Remove Tree Stumps
Written by Cincinnati Stump Grinding and checked against the sources above on October 26, 2026. City rules and product guidance change, so check the linked page before you act.