Will Roots Die And Stop Growing If Bald Cypress Trees Are Cut Down

Question From: J. Mckenney - Bluffton, South Carolina, United States
Q: We are being required to remove our bald cypress trees due to area damage caused by the root structures. If we cut the trees down does the root structure die or what happens to them. Roots are breaking neighbors driveway and sidewalks.

A: The roots will stop growing after the trees are cut as they have no food source. They will slowly decompose. Before dying completely, the roots may use energy they've stored to put out shoots to try to grow more leaves and get another food source. Keep cutting the shoots until they stop coming up. Grinding up the tree trunks with a special grinding machine can help reduce or eliminate shoots and hasten the death and decomposition of the roots. Best Nancy