Nieghbours Cutting Roots Of Shared Hedge

Question

I live in a semi detached house with a shared copper beech hedge. The hedge is probably about 40 years old and we keep it trimmed to a height of about 7 feet. Our new neighbours have started to dig a trench along the line of the hedge about 3 feet deep about 2 feet from the beech hedge trunks as they intend to lay concrete. Obviously, in doing so they are cutting through the hedge roots, some of which are about 1 inch in diameter. My question is, is this likely to damage the hedge? A quick response would be helpful as I may still be in a position to ask them to desist! Thanks

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Answer 1

I think that this will be beneficial, actually. Leaving to open air will help the roots callous over, reducing chance of infection. The concrete may be the one that suffers in the long run, actually. If the roots make their way into the concrete, over time this may crack it. Filling in with concrete will reduce the chance of infection because it will not contain as much microbial life as soil.

It sounds like this is probably the most ideal thing to happen after such pruning.

Answer 2

There is quite a bit of worry for infection with that much damage to the root system. It will likely need to be treated with a fungicide, just in case. Cutting roots that thick is not a good idea, though. If you can keep them from getting an infection, then they may regrow feeder roots on your side, and recover after the shock.

Answer 3

Thanks BushDoctor. Further to the above...I don't know how long they are planning on leaving the roots exposed to the air but would I be correct in saying that could also be an issue? And finally, I believe they intend to fill the trench with concrete. Could that be a problem also, when the concrete comes into contact with the cut roots?