Depending on the age and size of your property’s trees, the root system could either be very deep underground or visible on the surface of your lawn. Roots and there to help stabilize your tree and allow your tree to get the moisture and nourishment that it needs to survive. Here’s a couple of things you need to know to avoid damaging your tree’s roots system throughout its long life on your landscape.
Avoid Harming Your Tree’s Roots While Planting
Roots might come to the surface when trees are planted too closely to your solid structures, like sidewalks or your home’s foundation. Root surfacing also occurs when your trees are not planted deep enough into the ground. A tree with surface roots must be mowed and trimmed very carefully, and it could be helpful to mulch around and between your tree’s exposed roots to avoid damaging them. Always plant the right trees in the proper spots to ensure surface roots all stay healthy and below-ground.
The Depth and Length of Your Tree’s Root System
The roots of most trees lie within the very top two feet of soil. Root systems usually spread to the outer edge of your tree’s crown, known as the dripline, so that they might soak up the water that drips from your tree’s leaves. Your tree’s roots flare, or the area at the very base of your tree’s trunk that spreads out the roots, should be very visible in order to determine whether your tree was planted at the right depth. It could also give you more of an idea of how healthy your root system might be.
Planting Tips that Take Your Tree’s Roots into Consideration
Tree experts and arborists follow the general rule that the bigger and taller than a tree is known to grow, the further it should be planted from sidewalks, driveways, and other solid structures. Smaller trees will normally grow up to 20 feet tall, medium trees could reach 20 to 40 feet, and large trees are usually 40 feet or taller while mature. Smaller trees should be planted around two feet away from any structures, while medium to large trees grow the very best while planted ten feet from structures.
Hire an Arborist
Finding a local arborist to care for your trees is an excellent way to ensure the least amount of damage to your tree’s entire root system.
Tree Care and Maintenance from Harford Tree
Ready to have the beautiful yard you have always dreamed of? Harford Tree Experts & Landscaping, Inc has been in the business for decades, providing customers with quality work and quick responses all at the right price. We service the areas of Harford County, Baltimore County, Baltimore City areas including Bel Air, Fallston, Perry Hall, Towson, Essex, Parkville, White Marsh, and Middle River. For service during business hours, reach out to us or give us a call at 410-592-7321. We offer 24/7 emergency service as well, just give us a call at 443-250-6649. For updates about our business and more informative tips, follow us on Facebook and Twitter.