Reality: There is a high probability that the roots and tree will not survive long term at all! If the roots survive at all, they will grow upward, often breaking sidewalks, driveways and causing lawn problems.
If a decision is made to cut these surface roots, this may causes the tree more injury. Instead, place organic hardwood mulch over the grass and woody surface roots. Always remember to plant at a depth where the roots spread from the trunk/root flare. According to Dr. Alex Shigo, one of the tree planting myths that our customers may believe is that if you plant deep, the roots will grow deeper.