When you think of tree services like trimming and pruning, you probably imagine an arborist snipping wayward, dead or dangerous branches. However, the real root of the problem might be right under your nose.
Tree roots can cause major issues and even damage, and can often require trimming, too. Root cutting services should be handled only by a professional and only when absolutely necessary, because it’s possible to permanently damage the tree in the process.
Root problems can happen for a number of reasons, such as if a tree was planted in an area that’s too small for it, if a home was built too close to a tree or if the roots naturally sprung up but you’ve found that it’s become impossible for the kids to play safely around them or for you to mow your lawn. Cutting the roots can improve the aesthetics of your yard, the safety of your home and prevent home, foundation and sidewalk damage.
How the Pros Approach Tree Services
Before making any cuts, the roots will be examined closely and traced back to the trunk. Cutting large roots is most likely to damage the tree, so it’s safer if smaller roots are the troublemakers. Of course you can’t control which roots are more burdensome, but it does give you an idea of the risk of root cutting.
Finding the best place to make the cut is step two, and it’s never a random process.
Many arborists will measure the diameter of the trunk, multiply it by eight, and that figure tells them the closest they can cut the root in comparison to where the tree is. The closer you cut to the tree, the higher the odds of causing permanent damage.
Roots are a tree’s life source, and just like if one of your major arteries was cut, it can be difficult to heal!
Easy Does It
A reputable arborist will mark the best place to cut and never makes guesses. Spray paint or colored chalk is often used, and then the surrounding soil is dug out from the marked spot.
If digging out soil below the root is feasible, it’s for the best. The ultimate goal is to easily pull the root from the ground after it’s been cut. A special root saw is used for larger roots, or pruning shears can be used for smaller ones. Once it’s cut, the root is pulled up and away from the tree until it comes free.
You’ll be left with a trench where the root was, but that can be covered easily with soil or sod, and you can even add grass seed to encourage green coverage.
After a tree’s roots are cut, watch it closely for the next few weeks. Dead branches are a sure sign that the tree has sustained damage, and if it begins to lean, quick action is required to cut it down before it hurts someone or damages property.
Contact Reliable Tree Care for more information on root trimming.