Digging Near Cedar Hedge for Pool: Safe Distance?

Bruce in Montreal planned an in-ground pool near an 8-foot mature cedar hedge. Asked safe digging distance to avoid root damage.

The expert said cedars have fibrous roots mostly within 2 feet deep, spreading 1.5x foliage width (e.g., 4-foot limbs → 6-foot roots). Trees survive if ≤20% roots are damaged. Construction traffic and cement also harm roots. If work can't stay clear, remove hedge and replant after.

Root Protection Math

• Root depth: ~2 feet.
• Root spread: 1.5 × canopy radius.
• Max root loss: 20%.
• Keep heavy equipment off root zone.