Can Mature Live Oaks Withstand Trimming The Exposed Roots Back Down To Ground Level?

Question

We are laying St. Augustine sod around several of our mature oaks. To prepare the soil we would like to be able to bring the roots back down to grade.

Answer 1

Your trees could suffer. It is typically not recommended to cut tree roots. You might consider covering them with mulch or groundcover.

Here is more information:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/tgen/exposed-tree-roots.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/tgen/shaving-down-tree-roots.htm