I really love this tree in my front yard with its lacy network of branches and fluttery leaves. It provides a lot of shade for my house and is so visually appealing.
However, the root system has destroyed two of the sprinkler pipes and one of the roots abuts the corner of the house.
I can see cracks in the stucco that were likely created by the root and it also looks like it's starting to eat into the wall (and perhaps the foundation). I think I'm going to have to remove the tree--and have the root system ground up.
As I've looked closer at the house and the roots, I've realized that this removal will prevent further damage, but I wish there were another alternative. It will be hard to give up this:
And this:
My neighbor Lori suggested that I plant another tree in the yard (further away from the house). It will have 10 months to grow while I'm gone. That made me feel a little better . . .
