Magnolia Tree Roots

[ClaireC]

Can you help me please. I am looking at purchasing a house, and the nextdoor neighbour has a magnolia tree in their front garden It is around 15' high and about 5@ from their front window. Should I be concerned about the roots underground? What direction do they grwo? etc

[Newt]

Hi Claire, Do you know what type of magnolia? It sounds like you are saying that the tree is only 5' from the house. If that is so, that is too close for any tree and it would need to be moved or removed. Newt

[Drewhound]

In theory I agree with Newt. In practice some of the biggest Magnolias in the country grow close to houses and I've never heard of problems. I see no reason for concern anyway, you are buying the house next door after all Apart from a very few trees, willow eg, or on clay soil, tree roots won't be much of a problem. Leaves clogging up gutters is a better reason for keeping them away from houses imo