When you see twisted roots encircling the trunk of your favorite tree, you might worry about hitting them with your mower. However, the more dangerous prospect is that these oddly growing roots may put the tree’s health at risk. Learning how to fix girdling tree roots is a job best left to professionals offering tree services in Millcreek, UT.
How To Recognize Girdling Roots
When roots grow above the ground while encircling and touching the trunk, you are likely seeing signs of girdling roots on trees. After the roots establish themselves, the trunk might continue to grow, trying to expand outward. Eventually, the roots inhibit the trunk’s growth, almost choking it as it tries to expand outward.
Some above-ground roots are normal for certain species of trees. However, when they begin wrapping around the trunk, they become dangerous.
Why This Issue Negatively Affects Tree Health
When trees have girdling roots, the compromised trunk may struggle to pass moisture and nutrients from the roots to the canopy. Along with the roots touching the trunk’s base, you may notice stunted leaf growth, large sections of dead branches, and premature leaf discoloration. If the girdling is severe, the trunk may show cracks near the ground.
Options for Neutralizing Girdling Roots
When developing a plan for how to fix girdling tree roots, professionals can use multiple options. Careful techniques are essential when trying to repair girdling roots and save a tree. Professionals don’t want to cause more damage to the tree or roots while trying to fix the issue.
Removing Soil Near the Trunk
To determine the severity of the problem, professionals might remove some of the soil around the roots. They can then see whether any underground roots are also encircling the trunk. Professionals will work with small tools and brushes to remove the dirt as carefully as possible.
Cutting Away the Problematic Roots
One of the key methods to correct tree root girdling is cutting away the most problematic roots. Only professionals should tackle this task.
Cutting too many of the roots will compromise the tree’s stability or may kill it. Professionals might cut away only part of the largest girdling roots to weaken them while avoiding causing bark damage.
Properly Planting the Tree
The most important preventative step to take is planting the tree in a hole that has enough width. Dig the hole about three times as wide as the root ball when planting, giving roots room to expand outward.
Rely On Green Pointe Tree Care for Help With Successfully Treating Root Problems
Figuring out how to fix girdling tree roots is a challenge for homeowners to do without damaging the tree. The best option for tree root care in Millcreek, UT, is to rely on our professionals at Green Pointe Tree Care. We have more than 30 years of experience helping homeowners with all their tree care problems.
We can provide advice for managing shallow roots near the trunk and for covering tree roots with soil or mulch without damaging them. To obtain a free cost estimate for any of our services, call us today at (801) 608-6781.