Planting trees on your property can make a world of difference. For example, a tree can add as much as 20% to your home’s value.
How healthy your tree is will determine how beneficial it will be. Unfortunately, determining your tree’s health isn’t always straightforward, especially if the issue lies below the ground. The good news is that conducting a root collar excavation can help you determine if your tree is growing as it should.
This article will take a closer look at tree root collar excavations, highlighting how opting for professional tree service in Louisville, KY, can help.
What Is Root Collar Excavation?
Every tree owner knows how important tree roots are. However, what many might not know is that the roots need to grow in a precise way. If they don’t, the tree will be unable to absorb water and nutrients. Fortunately, since your tree’s growth is slow, you can remedy the situation if you act quickly.
That is where root collar excavation comes in.
The term refers to the process of removing excess soil from a tree’s trunk to expose the root flare. Afterward, a specialist will examine the roots to determine the measures you will need to implement to protect the tree.
Why Do Trees Need Root Collar Excavations
We all want our trees to last a lifetime. Unfortunately, there are a lot of threats that could cause your tree’s death. Two of these issues are planting the tree too deep and applying too much mulch.
The deeper you go, the less oxygen there is. As such, when you plant your tree too deep below the surface, its fibrous roots will be unable to access the amount of oxygen the tree needs to complete photosynthesis.
Similarly, applying excess mulch restricts the amount of oxygen your roots get. This often leaves it vulnerable to disease, fungi, and insects.
Starving your tree roots of oxygen will cause them to grow around or across your tree’s trunk. This occurrence is what arborists call girdling roots and is extremely dangerous because the tree could end up strangling itself.
Fortunately, root collar excavations can help you address this issue.
Since girdling roots lie on top of the ground, removing the excess soil allows you to expose them. Root pruning can then help you address the issue and significantly improve your tree’s health.
Professional Tree Service in Louisville, KY
Your tree needs constant care to remain healthy and beautiful throughout the year. Even if your tree isn’t in the best condition, taking swift action can help you prevent its death.
At New Leaf Tree Service, we have the expertise and experience needed to provide your trees with the best care possible. From providing root collar excavation to helping you learn how to tell if a tree is sick, we are ready to assist with all your tree protection needs.Call New Leaf Tree Service today at (502) 419-9899 to schedule our services.