holly tree roots

Question

Our neighbour has a holly tree, next to our border line. We wish to lay paving in this area, but roots of the holly tree are there. If we cut them, will the tree die? The tree’s leaves are yellowing at the moment.

Thank you

Answer 1

Yes, removing the roots near the soil line may kill the plant. It may also survive. It is about a 50/50 chance.

If the leaves of the plant are yellowing, then it is possible that something else is already affecting it. This weakened state would increase the chances that removing the soil line roots would kill the tree.