You’re here because you want a simple answer: Does pruning a tree stop root growth? And it’s a question we arborists hear all the time, usually from homeowners dealing with:
- Lifting pavers
- Cracked pipes
- Or roots heading where they’re not otherwise welcome!
So let’s get to the short answer first: No. Pruning a tree doesn’t stop root growth. But the slightly longer explanation is far more interesting – and a lot more useful if you’re trying to make the right decision for your property. The first thing to point out is that trees don’t work in neat, isolated systems. Instead, what happens above the ground is connected to what happens below it – but not always in the way people expect. And understanding that relationship helps explain why pruning can sometimes change how roots behave, without actually stopping them. Before we get into the details, it helps to look at what really influences root growth in the first place.
The 5 things that actually influence tree root growth
We’ve outlined the 5 key factors us arborists consider when explaining why pruning doesn’t magically solve root issues – and why outcomes can vary so much from tree to tree.
1. Roots exist to support the canopy
It makes logical sense that roots grow to support what’s happening above the ground. Their main job is to anchor the tree and supply water and nutrients to the canopy. When the canopy is healthy and active, roots will continue to grow to meet that demand. So, equally logical is that just reducing the canopy doesn’t switch the roots off – it just slightly alters the balance between supply and demand.
2. Pruning affects growth balance, not root direction
When you prune a tree correctly, you’re managing the size of the canopy and the structure – you’re not targeting the root system. So while heavy pruning can temporarily reduce energy demand, it’s not like the roots will suddenly stop expanding or retreating. This is why the idea that pruning ‘controls’ roots is just a misconception.
3. Tree species matter more than pruning
Some species are naturally more aggressive root growers than others. Plenty of trees will simply continue to extend their roots regardless of how intensely you prune them, like:
- Fig trees
- Camphors
- Certain gums – and many others.
Does pruning a tree slow root growth? The answer is usually no, and the reason is often down to the species itself.
4. Stress can actually encourage root spread
Over-pruning or poor pruning can really stress a tree. A stressed tree may respond by pushing roots further in search of water and nutrients – especially in urban environments where soil conditions are already limited. Ironically, aggressive pruning aimed at ‘controlling’ roots can sometimes even make the problem worse!
5. Roots follow moisture, not branches
It’s important to realise that roots aren’t some kind of mirror of the canopy above them. Instead, they follow moisture gradients in the soil. So, regardless of how tidy the tree looks above ground, this is what attracts the roots:
- Leaking pipes
- Stormwater lines
- Irrigated lawns
- Garden beds.
Does pruning a tree reduce root growth? It actually isn’t even the right question. The better question is: what’s encouraging the roots to grow where they are?
6. Age & maturity play a big role
Another big factor to note is that young trees respond quite differently to pruning compared to mature trees. In established trees, the root system is already extensive. Pruning may therefore slightly reduce growth rate, but it definitely won’t reverse decades of root development. This is an important consideration before deciding whether pruning alone is a realistic solution.
7. Structural vs cosmetic outcomes
At the end of the day, pruning is excellent for:
- Safety
- Structure
- Tree health.
However, it’s not a reliable fix for root-related property damage. When roots are already causing issues, other interventions are usually required, such as:
- Root barriers
- Drainage changes
- Professional assessment.
In some cases, arborists may even recommend complete tree removal when the risks outweigh the benefits of keeping the tree.
So, what’s the takeaway?
Pruning can certainly influence how a tree grows overall, but it won’t stop roots from doing what they’re designed to do. Roots respond to biology, soil conditions, moisture, and species traits – not just what happens above ground. That doesn’t mean pruning isn’t valuable. Done correctly, it improves tree health, safety, and longevity. It just needs to be approached with realistic expectations – especially when roots are involved.
Speak with qualified Gold Coast arborists
If you’re dealing with root issues or unsure what the right approach is, the happy team at JC Tree Services can help. Our qualified arborists assess both the visible tree and what’s happening below the ground, giving you clear, practical advice tailored to your property. Get in touch today for expert guidance before small root problems turn into costly damage.
