Regular clean-outs are definitely underrated. I learned the hard way too—thought PVC was basically bulletproof until roots proved me wrong. Had a similar issue with a maple tree at my last place; beautiful tree, nightmare roots. Wish I'd known about root barriers back then...would've saved me a weekend of digging and a lot of frustration.
Curious though, have you found copper sulfate treatments effective long-term? I've heard mixed things about them, and like you said, they're not exactly eco-friendly. I've mostly stuck to inspections and manual clean-outs myself, but maybe I'm missing something.
Anyway, sounds like you've got a solid plan now. Storm damage is always rough, but catching it early makes such a difference in the long run. Glad you're getting things sorted out—yard projects can feel endless sometimes, but it's satisfying when you finally get ahead of it.
I've had mixed results with copper sulfate myself. It can help temporarily, but roots tend to come back tougher and more stubborn over time—almost like they're adapting. Plus, as you mentioned, the environmental concerns are significant. I've found physical interventions like root barriers or manual clean-outs more reliable long-term. Sometimes the straightforward approach just works better, even if it's a bit more labor-intensive...
"roots tend to come back tougher and more stubborn over time—almost like they're adapting."
Exactly my experience too. Copper sulfate seems like a quick fix, but I've noticed roots just reroute or thicken elsewhere. Root barriers have worked better for me, though installation was a pain. Curious if anyone's tried air pruning methods? I've read about them but haven't tested personally...wondering if they'd hold up long-term against aggressive root systems.
I've messed around a bit with air pruning pots for smaller plants, and they did seem to help keep the roots from getting too crazy. But honestly, I'm skeptical they'd hold up against really aggressive root systems like you're describing. I had a maple tree that kept sending roots under my driveway, and nothing short of a full-on barrier did the trick. Even then, the roots eventually found their way around it, just took them longer.
Air pruning seems great for container gardening or smaller-scale stuff, but I wonder how practical it'd be for established trees or shrubs in the ground? Might slow them down temporarily, but nature always seems to find a workaround. I'd probably stick with root barriers or maybe even consider changing up landscaping choices if the roots are causing that much trouble...
I had a similar experience with a large oak tree near my garage. Tried air pruning pots when it was younger, and they worked great initially—roots stayed manageable and healthy. But once it matured, the roots became relentless, pushing up paving stones and cracking concrete. Eventually, I had to install a heavy-duty root barrier. It slowed things down a lot, but like you said, nature finds a way eventually... sometimes you just have to adapt your landscaping to the tree rather than the other way around.
