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Save That Tree: Part One

© Georgeann Hall

I get quite a few calls concerning injury to ornamental trees. Most of this damage is from construction, lawn mowers, automobile accidents, or improper pruning. Since improper pruning has been discussed in past topics, I will focus on problems which may occur during construction.

Trees can be severly harmed or even killed when heavy equipment like backhoes or bulldozers drive back and forth across the area beneath the tree's dripline. This activity compacts the soil, severely impairing the ability of oxygen and water to percolate. The tree will then show signs of stress during hot or dry periods by dropping leaves or changing color. If the situation is not remedied, the tree may die the following summer, or perhaps not even make it through the winter.

Another type of construction injury is that which occurs when laying pipe, sidewalks, or digging trenches. This type of damage is probably what I see most often. When digging close to trees, contractors can sever many of the anchoring and feeder roots which trees need to survive. If too many roots are cut, the tree will wilt, drop leaves, or die on the damaged side. If too many anchoring roots are destroyed, the tree can become hazardous and fall during windy or rainy periods.

A third type of construction damage occurs when the grade around the tree is changed. If the grade is raised around the tree's rootzone, this has the same effect as soil compaction; that is, oxygen and water are unable to reach the tree's feeder roots. If the grade is lowered, feeder roots are exposed and may die, and the tree becomes water deprived.

Replacing damaged trees can be very expensive so it is best to avoid injuring them in the first place. To prevent severe injury, construct barriers around the trees to keep heavy equipment at a safe distance. The barrier should be no less than 10 or 15 feet from the tree's trunk, depending upon the size of the tree; further out is even better.

If you're going to raise the grade , then build a wall around the tree and place your soil around the wall.

If a tree is damaged anyway despite your precautions, there are a few things you can do in an attempt to save the tree. Always keep the tree well watered!! I cannot stress this enough. Additionally, apply a biostimulant to the rootzone area. If damage is very severe, consult a licensed arborist for recommendations.

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