FACT: 90% of visible problems in trees start in the root system. We have the solution. AIR SPADE
Soil Compaction
Soil compaction occurs when soil particles are pressed together, reducing the pore space between them. Nearly every tree is affected to some degree by soil compaction.
What causes soil compaction?
- Pressure from vehicles
- Repeated foot traffic
- Construction – grading after house is built
Why is this a problem for your trees?
- Reduces the rate of water infiltration
- Inhibits drainage
- Slows down gas exchange, increasing aeration-related problems
- Impedes root growth
- Limits the amount of soil explored by roots
- Decreases tree’s ability to take up nutrients and water
- Limited root growth destabilizes the tree
- Roots develop close to the surface – at risk from drought and heat stress
We have the SOLUTION.
At Stoltzfus Tree Care, LLC
we use a tool called an Air
Spade. This tool uses high velocity air to perform radial
trenching which allows oxygen to get to the tree roots
by removing compacted soil.
Radial trenching can be done without cutting or
causing any damage to roots.
Narrow trenches are created
in a radial pattern throughout
the root zone and backfilled
with topsoil and compost to
invigorate the soil. The tree’s
overall health gets a boost as
root growth increases.
Girdling Roots
Girdling Roots grow around the base of the tree instead of radiating outward.
What causes girdling roots?
- Container-grown plants often force roots to grow in a circular fashion. If these roots are not properly pruned when transplanted, girdling roots are the result.
- Improper Planting—planting too deep or leaving the burlap or wire mesh on the root ball—can cause girdling roots.
- Some trees are naturally prone to girdling roots, examples include Maples and Ashes.
What are the warning signs?
- Trees growing straight up out of the ground as though they were a telephone pole
- Leaves becoming smaller and lighter green over time
- Fewer leaves being produced from year to year
Why is this a problem for your trees?
- Pressure is placed on the water and nutrient pipeline located just under the tree’s bark.
- Water is unable to move up into the canopy of the tree.
- Sugar made in the leaves is unable to reach the roots.
- The tree suffers and begins to die.
We have the SOLUTION.
At Stoltzfus Tree Care, LLC, we expose the root collar by using an Air Spade to blow away the dirt. This allows us to remove the girdling roots without damaging healthy roots. We remove girdling roots by cutting them away. The remaining healthy roots are then covered with aerated topsoil.