Question
I have a flower bed that I have been planting for about 15 years now. the problem is that the soil in this bed is filled with thin root like strings that make it very difficult to dig and seem to stunt growth especially with perenials. I thought that if I continued to cultivate this area that these stringy roots would eventually rot or die out but they seem to just keep growing. I can grow small annuals but perenials just tend to do ok for about a year then return smaller and eventually die,almost as if they are being choked out by these tiny roots. There are several trees growing near this area but nothing else that I would think to be causing this. Any ideas as what this could be and how I can get rid of it?

Answer
Hi Cam, It's most likely roots from the trees.  The root zone of most trees is about twice the width of the canopy, extending well beyond the dripline.  Water and nutrient competition from the tress are causing you the grief.  The better you make the soil, the more the tree appreciates it and fills the area with roots.
I would remove the perennials this fall, till the bed, cut and remove any roots and replant.  You'll need to do this every few years unless you put a physical barrier to prevent the roots from growing back in.  I've used 12" aluminum roof flashing with good success, it's just a little work initially to install.  Bury it along the edge of the bed and you'll stop the roots from growing back in.
If you don't want to go to the trouble, choose drought resistant perennials for these areas.  You will need to increase both your water and fertilizer to get these to perform well.  Jim