Cut Root on Bradford Pear: One Nick Won’t Kill the Tree

Assessment

One ½-inch root cut at 3″ depth in July. Tree (12 yrs old) now showing top dieback and lower limb decline in August.

Verdict

Highly unlikely the root cut caused this. Trees tolerate ≤30% root loss without canopy dieback. One small root is negligible. Dieback pattern (center top first) suggests pre-existing stress (drought, girdling roots, disease, planting depth).

What to Do

• Check for girdling roots at root flare.
• Water deeply 1″/week if dry.
• Mulch 3″ (off trunk).
• Consult an arborist if decline continues.

Liability Note

Document the cut (photos, date). One root is not actionable damage.