Paving under a tree

Hello

In the corner of our garden is a big willow tree. It's lovely, and it's staying.

But it does make that corner difficult to grow things in, due to the shade - not that the ivy I've been removing seemed in the slightest bit bothered! - and we'd like a paved patio instead.

The ground isn't terribly level, and the path to the back gate (which you'll see in the photo) is lower than the soil.

Is this a straightforward, dig-down-150mm etc., job or is it made difficult by the location around the tree?

 

Hi

It depends on how deep the roots are. If it were me I would have it on 2 levels. One for the patio around the tree and one with the path. I would build a little retaining wall between the 2. Also you will have to leave an open area around the tree. In time the tree roots might lift the patio though.

If you dig down you are more likely to encounter roots from the tree.

Rusty

 

So, building up might be a better bet?

 

I would do it the easy way. As @rustyroots said - make the two levels, put the paving slabs on the lower level to form a pathway, and use ground cover membrane over the corner under the tree covered with shingle or something similar to make a tidy patch for seating.

 

I don't think you could build up with the gate as you would not be able to open it if you build up to one level.

Rusty

 

I wasn't going to pave in front of the gate. There's already a brick path there anyway (you can only just make it out in the photo).

 

Well yes then, building up would be the best bet

 

Gad, the more I think about this job, the harder it sounds (I'm really not a builder)!