Root Health: The Hidden Foundation of Tree Vitality

The Underground Network

Most people do not realize how much further tree roots go than they think. In an urban area such as Union City, a healthy root system usually extends two to three times the width of the tree’s canopy. An important part of this is that it allows the roots to perform several important functions:

Critical Root Functions

More than providing the support needed to hold the tree upright, the roots of a tree have several key functions that allow them to be healthy:

• Moisture absorption is done by the fine root hairs on each root. Each of these small hairs will find moisture in the soil when present. Proper soil condition is required so that the root hairs can absorb moisture efficiently.
• Nutrient absorption occurs with the help of other soil organisms. This cooperative relationship is beneficial because it allows trees to obtain the necessary minerals and nutrients.
• Stability is developed by the way the roots anchor into the ground (deep) and spread out laterally. Because urban conditions limit the ability of roots to grow naturally, the importance of proper root care is increased.

Urban Root Challenges

Trees located in Union City experience several root system challenges due to the urban environment:

• Compacted soil due to foot traffic and construction limits the ability of roots to expand and limits the amount of available oxygen in the soil. Compacted soil is very common in urban areas and usually causes stunted growth and declining tree health.
• Limited soil volume in street plantings and construction areas means that roots must adjust to being in a confined space.
• Competition for limited soil space exists between underground utility companies and trees. Proper root management will help to eliminate conflict while keeping the tree healthy.

Identifying Root Stress Symptoms

Knowing when to identify root stress will help you prevent serious tree decline:

• Above-ground signs of root system stress include early leaf color changes or reduced leaf size. These above ground signs are indicators that there is a problem occurring below the ground.
• Reduced density in the canopy or dying branches is also indicative of problems with the root system’s ability to function. A professional assessment will help to determine the reason why and recommend a course of action to correct the problem.
• A leaning tree or exposed surface roots could be a sign of significant instability problems. These types of problems should be assessed immediately by a professional.

Improving Health Through Root Management

There are a variety of ways that a professional root manager can improve the health of a tree using the following methods:

• Breaking up compacted soil through aeration creates an opportunity for roots to receive more oxygen and water. This process will help to rejuvenate the stressed root system.
• When performed correctly, mulching provides insulation to the roots of the tree and will create better growing conditions. Mulching is one method that has numerous benefits without creating any additional problems.
• Removing damaged soil and mulch build-up at the base of the tree through root collar excavation will remove obstacles that can create serious health issues for the tree.

Protecting Roots from Damage

By protecting the roots from damage, you will be able to avoid many common problems associated with trees:

• Establishing construction protection zones to protect the root zone of the tree during property renovations will help to ensure the tree does not suffer from any harm to its root system. A professional will be able to guide you on how to effectively establish protection zones.
• Planting a tree at the correct depth will ensure that the root system of the tree develops optimally. Improperly planted trees are a common cause of many tree-related problems.
• Maintaining good growing conditions in the soil through regular maintenance will promote llong-termroot health.

Benefits of Long-Term Root Care

Making investments in the health of the roots of your tree will pay dividends over time:

• Drought-tolerant trees will be able to withstand the stresses associated with environmental factors, such as drought, for longer. Trees with healthy roots are able to locate and access water more easily during extended periods of drought.
• Reduced risk of damage from storms will result from a strong and stable root system. Trees with well-developed root systems will be able to withstand extreme weather events.
• Extended life expectancy will occur as a direct result of proper root care. A tree with healthy roots will continue to thrive for the duration of its natural lifespan.

Scheduling a Root Evaluation

Contact Union City Tree Experts to schedule a professional evaluation of the root health of your trees. The Certified Arborists at Union City Tree Experts will evaluate your trees’ root systems and make recommendations regarding the best course of care to take.