Root Remediation Options For Trees
Most tree issues begin in the root systems. Most of the time, such issues are a result of trees being improperly mulched or originally planted. Too deep, too high, metal cages left on, wrong soil conditions (wet/dry), etc.
We can often remedy such discrepancies through the services that we provide below.
Air Spading
Over time tree root systems become compacted (especially in yards with turf grass around them) losing valuable pore space, resulting in soil compaction. This condition often leads to another condition known as girdling roots, which choke the vascular tissue at the base of the tree known as the root flare (AKA trunk flare, root collar, trunk collar). This condition restricts flow of nutrients and water throughout the tree predisposing it to yet more problems.
Air spading is a process we use to vastly improve the root systems under your trees and shrubs.
While the air stream is powerful, its harmless to non-porous objects such as plant roots, buried pipes or cables. Using an air-spade helps us to clear compacted soil and debris from the root flare without causing damage to the trunk or root system.
Root Collar Excavation
As Arborists, we often encounter trees that have been planted incorrectly, have excessive amounts of mulch piled onto their trunks or have had the soil around them compacted due to construction or excessive foot traffic.
In all of these cases the tree’s health will be negatively impacted due to the loss of pore space resulting in disruption of nutrient flow in the root system. This lack of nutrient uptake stresses the tree, and if left unchecked could result in girdling roots, pest and disease infestation, or death.
When preforming a Root Collar Excavation, we use an Air Spade to help loosen soil, decrease compaction, make way for root pruning if necessary, and add missing organic material and nutrients back into the soil, invigorating the tree and increasing its health and sustainability.
Girdling Roots
Lateral roots that emerge at or slightly below the soil surface and cut into at least one side of the main trunk. These roots restrict the movement of water and nutrients to the leaves as they put pressure on the trunk.