Tree Inspections And Root Collar Excavation Steps

Posted on: 14 February 2023

A tree's root system absorbs nutrients, water, and oxygen. If a root system is planted too deeply in the ground, a tree may become malnourished. A tree arborist will assess the placement of the trees on your property. The arborist may use a root collar excavation process to remove some of the dirt that is covering each tree's root system.

Tree Species And Planting Guidelines

Tree arborists study and care for native trees and non-native species. A tree requires specific growing conditions. Soil content, sunlight access, and water availability will influence whether a particular type of tree will be likely to thrive on your land.

The placement of a tree is another important detail that can affect the health of a tree. Trees should not be planted close to underground plumbing. They should also not be planted close to a home or another structure. During an assessment of a tree, an arborist will consider a tree's ideal growing conditions. An arborist will determine the depth at which a root system should be planted. If a lot of compacted dirt is covering a tree's root ball, the root system will likely not be receiving an adequate amount of oxygen.

An Excavation Process

There are several physical characteristics of a tree that will indicate that a tree isn't receiving the nutrients it needs. A lack of leaves, a weak trunk, and a short height could indicate that the root system of a tree is planted too deeply. A root collar excavation process involves removing mulch and dirt that surrounds the trunk of a tree. An air spade is commonly used to gently uncover the top of the root system.

The top of the root system (root flare) will extend outward from the base of the tree trunk. An arborist will assess the roots. If too much soil and mulch were originally surrounding the tree's trunk, moisture buildup under the materials could have led to root decay.

The heavy weight of the soil and mulch could have also contributed to root girdling. Girdling is a condition in which the roots twist. If girdled roots are spotted, an arborist will use pruning shears to clip unhealthy root sections. They will untwist root pieces that are in relatively good health.

The arborist will inspect the roots, trunk, and leaves for pest infestations. Once the tree services are conducted, the health of the tree may gradually improve. Trees should be inspected by a tree service provider annually.

For more information, contact a company such as KC Tree Service.

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