Ficus trees were planted all over Broward decades ago as fast-growing shade and privacy trees. Today they're behind a huge share of cracked driveways, lifted pavers, broken sidewalks and clogged pipes in South Florida. If a ficus is tearing up your property, here's what you need to know.
Why Ficus Roots Cause So Much Damage
- They're aggressive and shallow. Ficus roots spread wide just under the surface, right where your driveway, slab and pipes are.
- They grow fast. A ficus can outgrow its space in just a few years.
- They hunt for water. Roots find tiny cracks in old clay and cast iron pipes, grow inside, and cause clogs and breaks.
Signs Ficus Roots Are a Problem
- Cracks or lifting in your driveway, patio or pool deck
- Pavers popping up or shifting
- Slow drains or repeated plumbing backups
- Cracks in walls or a slab near the tree
- Roots visibly crossing the lawn toward the house
Your Options
Trim and manage it
If the tree is healthy and the damage is minor, trimming the canopy keeps it in check. But trimming the top doesn't stop the roots from spreading.
Root pruning
Cutting roots near structures can slow damage, but it has to be done carefully. Cutting too many roots can destabilize the tree and make it more likely to fall in a storm.
Remove the tree
When a ficus is actively damaging your foundation, pipes or driveway, removal is often the long-term fix. In tight Broward yards, large ficus are taken down in sections and lowered by rope so nothing gets hit. Tree removal in Broward.
Ficus Hedges vs Ficus Trees
Many properties have ficus hedges along the property line, which have the same root issues. Note that we focus on trees and don't offer hedge trimming.
Get a Quote
Text photos of the tree and the damage to (954) 730-1776 with your city. Include the trunk, the canopy and the cracks or lifting. You'll get a free price range back, plus an honest opinion on whether to trim or remove.
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