A bare root tree's taproot is usually cut before the tree is wrapped and prepared for sale. In fact, the Samuel Roberts Noble Foundation recommends cutting taproots to 18 inches long when planting new orchards. When the tree is replanted, it produces numerous new roots, which spread out to help stabilize it.

Can you cut a tap root?

All you have to do is take the plant and cut the tap roots apart, removing no more than one-third of the thread roots in the process. You shouldn't shorten the tap roots at all during this process, but using clippers to trim the thread roots is acceptable. Also, prune roots that are dead looking away.

Will a tree survive if you cut the tap root?

If I cut a root, will the tree die? ... Removing large tree roots can make the tree unstable or unhealthy later on. If large roots are removed, the tree may not be able to get enough nutrients and water. Also, don't remove roots close or fused to the trunk since these are critical to the tree's structure.