A common problem with trees in the landscape is circling or girdling roots. Often when symptoms appear, such as a declining upper canopy, it is too late to help the tree. 

We routinely check young trees by performing a root crown excavation. Through this process, we efficiently check for girdling roots and confirm that the root flares are at a proper soil height. 

Application:

A client in Gladwyne has a row of Chinese Elm trees that are underperforming. To improve growing conditions we injected an organic soil conditioner and performed root crown excavations to check for girdling roots. I am looking forward to checking these trees in the spring to see the improvements to their health.

This article originally appeared in the Winter 2014 newsletter – John B Ward & Co. Timely Tree Tips