How many tree roots can you cut before killing the tree?

Question

we have a tree that we are digging by and we don't want to kill it. there are two 5 inch diameter trees and one foot thick root. Would it kill our chetnut tree if we cut them?

Answer 1

It sounds like the root is larger than the tree. :) It's never a good idea to cut the roots, but if you must cut the roots make sure they are no bigger than 1/4" in diameter. It sounds like the best thing to do would be to transplant the trees. Since they are only 5" in diameter, they should be fairly easy to transplant.