You’re tired of tripping and damaging your lawnmower on bumpy roots that surface from below the ground, but you don’t know what to do about exposed tree roots. Mr. Treeman LLC provides reputable landscape support in Waterbury and we’ll give you our industry tips below. 

What Makes Tree Roots Appear From the Soil?

Exposed roots are common in the area closest to the tree. It’s normal to see a few subsystems of roots spreading directly from the tree’s base. However, you shouldn’t see newly exposed roots further away. This indicates root damage from:

• Soil compaction: Compaction occurs when the soil surrounding a plant is too tightly pressed against the roots. The roots can’t push through the dirt, so they force their way above ground. 
• Dirt erosion: Water and wind gradually move soil from one place to another, uncovering the root systems beneath. 
• Too little room: If you plant a young tree in a hole that’s too small, it may not have enough room to spread out. 
• Forceful winds: Powerful windstorms can push the tree to one side, causing the root system to break through the surface. 

If you aren’t sure what to do about exposed tree roots, learn how to manage them below. 

What To Do About Exposed Tree Roots

You can’t save trees uprooted by wind or floodwaters. You need emergency tree removal services in Waterbury, Connecticut, to protect your property. What about trees that can survive? 

Whatever you do, don’t add soil. You can’t stop root exposure from soil erosion by adding more material that will eventually wash or blow away. Try the following technique instead. 

Cut All Plant Growth to the Dirt

Mow all the grass beneath the tree, and go over the remaining blades with a weed wacker to finish. Once you’ve eliminated most of the growth, begin the next step. 

Aerate the Surrounding Soil

Use a soil aeration tool to loosen any compacted soil surrounding the tree. You can use a machine similar to a push mower or a pair of attachments for the bottoms of your shoes. The aeration enables air and water to soak deeper into the surface. 

Cover the Surrounding Area

Next, you need a root covering that protects and nourishes the tree roots. Some property owners reach for rolls of landscape fabric to prevent weeds from overtaking the area. If you aren’t concerned about weeds, just spread a layer of mulch about three inches thick. 

Mulching tree roots protects the roots and adds an even ground cover to prevent tripping. As the mulch decays, it nourishes the soil. 

Water Occasionally

Finally, give your tree some extra water every month, especially during dry spells. Occasional watering sessions will replenish the moisture and encourage your tree to drive its roots underground with the water. 

Find Out Whether You Should Salvage or Remove Your Tree From Mr. Treeman LLC in Waterbury, Connecticut

Now that you know what to do about exposed tree roots, check out our blog about understanding root damage and its effects on tree health. Then, call Mr. Treeman LLC at 203-879-3645 to learn whether you can save your root-exposed tree in Waterbury, Connecticut.