Can Pavers Be Used Around Trees?

Your trees are among the most beautiful features of your yard, yet they can sometimes feel disconnected from the rest of your landscaping. You want to integrate them into a stylish, intentional design, but you’re not sure if adding pavers will cause harm.

At Redbud Landscape, we’ve been designing beautiful and healthy landscapes in Northwest Indiana for over 18 years. The good news? Yes, you can absolutely use pavers around trees. The key is to do it correctly by following a few critical guidelines:

• Give roots room to breathe
• Pick the right materials
• Install carefully
• Keep up with maintenance

With thoughtful planning, your trees can become a stunning centerpiece in your yard. Let’s explore how to make that happen.

Why Can’t I Just Put Pavers Anywhere Around My Tree?

Adding pavers too close to a tree can cause problems that are easy to overlook. Compacted soil limits the amount of oxygen that reaches the roots, which can slow growth or even cause long-term stress. Compaction also affects water drainage, so your tree might not get enough moisture to stay healthy. Careful planning is important to prevent these problems.

What Types of Pavers Work Well Around Trees?

Not all pavers are created equal when it comes to landscaping near trees. The key is to choose materials that allow air, water, and nutrients to reach the roots, keeping your tree healthy while giving your yard a polished, intentional look. Some of the best options include:

• Permeable pavers – These allow water and air to pass through, helping roots stay nourished, reducing soil compaction, and creating stable pathways for walking or seating. 
• Gravel, porous concrete, and interlocking stones – These materials create a stable surface while still letting the soil breathe.
• Stone or brick pavers with spacing between them – Leaving gaps allows water to drain and air to circulate, which benefits the roots.
• Natural stone slabs or flagstone in a loose pattern – Laying stones loosely around the tree base creates a decorative effect while minimizing pressure on the roots.

Choosing the right type of paver is only part of the puzzle. Even tree-friendly materials can harm roots when placed too close together.

How Much Space Should I Leave Between the Tree and the Pavers?

Providing the right amount of space around your tree is one of the simplest ways to protect it. Roots need room to grow and access nutrients, so leaving a paver-free area around the trunk is important.

A common guideline is to measure the tree trunk’s diameter and multiply it by 10. For example, a tree with a 1-foot trunk diameter should have pavers placed at least 10 feet away from its base. This gives the roots plenty of space and prevents future problems, such as paver lifting or root damage.

By planning this space, you create a safe area for your tree while still leaving plenty of room for decorative pavers along the outer edges.

How Do I Install Pavers Without Hurting the Tree?

The installation method is just as important as the materials you choose. Shallow installation with a sand or gravel base reduces soil compaction, allowing roots to continue growing naturally. Raised or floating pavers are another option that protects the tree while creating a stylish design.

For older or larger trees, consulting a professional landscaper can make a big difference. They can help you work around extensive root systems and avoid damage during installation. By taking these steps, you can create a visually appealing paver area that also supports the long-term health of your tree.

How Do I Keep Both My Tree and Pavers Looking Great Over Time?

Once your pavers are installed, a little ongoing care goes a long way. Water the tree and paver-free zone regularly, apply mulch to protect roots, and keep an eye out for signs of stress. Seasonal checks can help identify issues such as settling pavers or roots beginning to lift stones.

Avoid heavy foot traffic or placing large furniture on the pavers, which can compact the soil and affect root health. With consistent attention, your tree will remain healthy and your pavers will continue to look attractive for years.

Give Your Trees the Stage They Deserve

Pavers can beautifully highlight your trees without harming them, but it requires proper planning, materials, and maintenance. By following these guidelines, you can turn your trees from simple background elements into the striking centerpieces of your yard.

If you’re ready to create a design that integrates your trees into your landscape, let’s talk. Our team at Redbud Landscape can help you create a cool, healthy, and functional design you’ll love.