The trees on your property may pose safety hazards if they sustain enough root damage. This begs the question: How much root damage can a tree take? New Leaf Tree Service, a reliable arborist in Louisville, KY, shares everything you need to know about how root damage affects tree health.
The Importance of Root Health
Many people believe that healthy tree growth will occur as long as the structure receives enough sunlight and water. However, they fail to look beyond the surface and understand that the roots are what keep the tree healthy. It’s crucial to focus on a tree’s root zone and do everything possible to ensure proper growth, or else the tree may turn sickly.
Maintaining healthy tree roots can be challenging since several things can damage a root system, including:
- Compacted soil
- Drought
- Overwatering
- Lack of nutrients
- Too much fertilizer
- Direct injury from digging into the roots
A professional arborist can help you evaluate root health and answer questions like, “How much root damage can a tree take?”
Signs of Tree With Root Damage
Mature trees can endure root damage for years before they begin to show any symptoms. However, this steady decline in health can eventually cause the tree to become a safety hazard. Below is a breakdown of warning signs that indicate your tree has root damage.
Abnormal Changes in Foliage
Pay attention to how your tree’s leaves look each season. If they start to turn yellow or brown soon after blooming or begin wilting, the tree is sick. Contact a tree service company to evaluate the structure’s health and treat the root system.
Dying Branches
Once you notice branches on the tree dying, it indicates a compromised root system. Arborists will have to prune the dead branches and address the root damage to prevent widespread decay.
Slow Growth
Trees with extensive root damage will experience stunted growth. Your vegetation may not bloom right away or fail to reach its full growth potential. It’s crucial to treat the underlying problem immediately to restore the tree’s health.
How To Treat a Root-Damaged Tree
How much root damage can a tree take, and what can you do to protect it?
Depending on the severity of the root damage, arborists can take a few different approaches. Their first step is to assess the critical root radius and determine if preventative measures, like root pruning and soil aeration, will promote healthy growth. These measures can help restore the tree’s health, but only if root damage does not exceed 40%.
Severely compromised roots can affect the tree’s structural stability and increase the risk of the tree uprooting. This scenario can cause significant property damage and endanger you and your family. The safest option, in this case, would be to remove the tree before it becomes more unstable.
You can prevent root damage to your trees by taking the following preventative steps:
- Applying fertilizer once a year
- Providing sufficient water
- Placing mulch around the base of the tree
- Avoiding driving near the tree
- Using caution when digging near the roots
Schedule an arborist consultation if you notice any changes in your tree’s appearance and want to rule out root damage.
Consult an Arborist About Tree Health
How much root damage can a tree take before it turns dangerous? Will root collar excavation help with root regrowth? For answers to these questions and more, turn to New Leaf Tree Service.
We’re the premier tree service company serving Louisville and have the expertise to boost tree health and make properties safer. To request a free estimate, submit our online contact form or call (502) 419-9899.