Your well is a convenient source of water for the house, but you’re not the only one interested in the water. Nearby plants often grow toward pipes, seeking moisture—especially trees since their roots stretch so deep and far. While you can sometimes plant trees in these areas, you must do it carefully to avoid the need for extensive well repairs in the future.

How Roots Damage the System

If roots grew passively around the well system, they wouldn’t be a problem. However, tree roots have a nasty habit of breaking rigid materials like stone and metal. They grow into fine, hairline cracks, then expand, gradually fracturing the material. If roots get into your pipes, they’ll widen any cracks or gaps. Also, the roots will expand inside the pipes, clogging them completely.

Trees That Cause Well Damage

You’re most likely to need plumbing and well repairs if you plant trees that grow quickly or have extensive root systems. This includes most popular shade trees and anything that grows exceptionally tall or wide. The list of trees to avoid is long, but it includes oak, willow, aspen, maple, cottonwood, ash, elm, sycamore, and eucalyptus.

Trees to Choose Instead

Even smaller trees can be problematic if you plant them close, so still leave a respectful distance between them and your water well drilling site. With that in mind, slow-growing trees under 25 feet at full size are smart choices to plant in the area. Beech, hornbeam, magnolia, crabapple, dogwood, and redbud trees are all attractive possibilities with less-extensive root systems than larger trees. To determine how far to plant from your well and pipes, look up the tree’s height and canopy width, choose whichever is greater, then add ten feet.

If you need well repair after tree root infiltration, contact Marshall Eye Jr. Water Well Drilling & Repair Service. This Potosi, MO, excavation contractor has 60 years of experience and offers water well drilling throughout Washington County. Their comprehensive approach covers every aspect of well installation and maintenance, including pump service. To get started, visit their website or call (314) 541-6239.