Tree Roots

[sw_stupid]

We have a tree starting to come up in the flower bed by the pool. I am wondering if I need to cut it down before the roots cause problems. I would really like to leave it, but didn't know if the roots will cause problems. BTW: It is a liner pool. I'm sure I need to cut it, but maybe someone will tell me other wise.

Thanks in advance,
Brad

[HAYMAN]

What kind of tree is it? If its in the Ficas family.......CUT IT DOWN! There are some trees that are not as destuctive, but Ficas( Indian LAURELS) trees are the worst.

[GHM]

If it were me I'd cut it down.
Trees around pools drop all kinds of crap in the pool and block the sun.

George

[Watermom]

I have trees around my pool and I mean RIGHT around my pool. In fact, I can almost reach out while I am in the pool and pull leaves off. However, except for the few weeks at the beginning where they drop a lot of stuff in the pool, my trees haven't caused any problems so far. I have a crabapple tree and a pretty big red maple - which is the one that is right beside the pool. I need the trees for shade because I get full sun and it makes my house so hot. The trees provide some shade and help keep the house cooler. After about noon, however, the sun moves into a position that my pool is not shaded by them and gets full sun. At some point, my trees may be a problem and if so I'll deal with it then, but so far - 6 seasons - no problems. (I have an AG - vinyl liner.) Don't know if this helps you or not, but just sharing my situation.

[KurtV]

SW,
Some trees have pretty well behaved root systems (River Birch or Betula Nigra comes to mind) and are considered good "foundation" trees (trees you can safely plant near a foundation) or street trees. Others are a nightmare because of invasive root systems or lots of surface roots (many maples come to mind here). In other words, the answer to your question really depends on the type of tree you're talking about. Also, some trees are much messier than others and would cause you endless headaches regardless of whether they would potentially harm the pool structure

A good local nursery should be able to give you good advice on this.

[PatL34]

I think it really depends on the water table that exists where you live. Those trees that are planted in a water table that is close to the ground will tend to move the roots out rather than down, especially if they are intolerant of having "wet feet" so to speak. Oak trees come to mind in that regard.

Those that are tolerant of water like weeping willows and cypress need to have water close by.

Check from your local county extension office with the horticultural agent, and they will advise you for what is best beside a pool.

Hope this helps.

Pat