Root zone invigoration can revive declining trees and restore their health and beauty. Healthy trees need healthy, fertile, well-aerated soils.
Compacted Soils Restrict Root Growth
Magnifed diagram showing good soil structure
Optimum conditions for plant growth require soil that is relatively pliable and permeable, with plenty of large pore spaces. Unfortunately, many of our suburban landscapes trees grow in soils lacking sufficient porosity. Ideally our trees would be rooted in soils that have at least fifty percent pore space. Open space between individual soil particles allows water and oxygen to infiltrate deeper and create a healthier rooting environment. Removing fallen leaves and other organic material from our landscapes degrades soil structure and reduces soil fertility, while vehicle and foot traffic simultaneously increase compaction, severely limiting root growth and adversely affecting tree health.
AirSpade™ Improves Soil Structure
Improving soil structure and soil fertility begins with alleviating soil compaction. Our supersonic air excavation tool breaks up tough compacted soils without damaging tree roots. Incorporating organic material into the loosened soil will improve soil structure. Using the results from a soil analysis we can increase soil fertility by mixing the proper dosage of nutrients back into the tree’s root zone. These steps will decrease the bulk density of your soil by increasing air space between soil particles and will allow the tree’s roots easier access to water and nutrients.
The critical root zone should be mulched with two to four inches of organic material to reduce competition with turf grass and to help minimize future soil compaction. It is important that you eliminate any unnecessary traffic across the critical root zone, especially when the soil is moist and most susceptible to compaction.
Creating optimum soil conditions is the best preventive step you can take to ensure the longevity and beauty of your trees. While results are unique for every tree, we typically observe a denser, more vibrant crown within 18-24 months.
By considering tree species, growth phase, and soil conditions, our ISA Certified Arborists can develop a root management plan that will keep your trees healthy and beautiful.
