Is Your Tree at Risk? How to Handle Exposed Roots in Your Yard

Is Your Tree at Risk? How to Handle Exposed Roots in Your Yard

If you've ever noticed tree roots poking above the ground in your yard, you may have wondered why it's happening and what you should do about it. While exposed tree roots are a common issue in Connecticut, they can cause serious problems for your trees' health and your property's safety. In this blog, we'll take a closer look at why tree roots grow above the ground and how you can address the issue in your Farmington, CT home or business before it leads to bigger problems.

How Tree Roots Grow

Tree roots are the hidden lifeline that supports the entire tree. They seek water and nutrients in the soil to help the tree grow and thrive. The majority of tree roots grow within the top 4 to 20 inches of soil—where oxygen, moisture, and nutrients are abundant. While a tree’s root zone typically extends beyond the drip line (the outer edge of the tree's canopy), roots can sometimes spread much farther.

Roots don’t always grow straight down. Trees will send their roots in whichever direction they can find resources, and that can sometimes mean roots end up above the ground.

Why Exposed Tree Roots Are a Problem

Exposed tree roots aren't just an aesthetic issue—they can actually pose a number of risks to both the health of your trees and the safety of your yard. Here's why exposed roots are problematic:

• Tree Health: Exposed roots are vulnerable to damage from foot traffic, mowers, string trimmers, and vehicles. Any injury to the roots can impact the tree’s ability to transport water and nutrients, leading to stress, leaf dieback, and even tree death

• Vulnerability to Pests and Diseases: Damaged roots act like an open wound, making it easier for insects and diseases to invade the tree's system. This can lead to serious issues, including disease spread and pest infestation

• Safety Hazards: Exposed tree roots can become tripping hazards, especially if they protrude just slightly above the soil. This can be dangerous for anyone walking through your yard in Farmington, CT, including children and guests

• Weak Tree Stability: When roots grow above the surface, they can't effectively anchor the tree. This can lead to instability, and in some cases, the tree could become a danger during strong winds or storms

• Soil Erosion: When soil around the roots washes away, the roots are exposed, and the tree can become less stable. Erosion around trees can also change the grading of your property, leading to drainage problems and affecting nearby structures

Why Do Tree Roots Grow Above Ground?

Several factors may contribute to the exposure of tree roots, including:

• Compacted Soil: In areas where the soil is compacted, tree roots have to work harder to obtain water and nutrients - roots may grow closer to the surface in search of easier access to oxygen and moisture

• Poor Soil Quality: Some soil variations in Connecticut don’t allow for proper drainage, which forces roots to grow near the surface to find the water and nutrients they need to survive

• Erosion: Natural or human-induced erosion can wash away soil around the base of a tree, exposing its roots

• Lack of Space: If a tree is planted in a confined area, such as near other trees or structures, the roots may spread above the ground to accommodate their need for nutrients

What to Do About Exposed Tree Roots

Luckily, there are several solutions for managing exposed tree roots, depending on the situation. Here are some strategies to consider:

1. Cover Exposed Tree Roots with a Thin Layer of Mulch

Adding a thin layer of mulch over the exposed roots can help protect them from the elements and minimize damage. Be careful not to pile mulch too deep, as this can cause root rot - a half-inch layer is typically sufficient.

2. Aerate the Soil

Aerating the soil around the tree can help reduce compaction and improve drainage. Professional tree care services can use an air spade to carefully aerate the soil without harming the roots. Aeration also helps to add oxygen and nutrients to the soil, promoting overall tree health.

3. Tree Removal

In some cases, exposed roots may pose such a hazard that residential or commercial tree removal becomes necessary. If the roots are causing significant damage to structures, sidewalks, or creating a tripping hazard, professional tree removal in Farmington might be the best option. Keep in mind that grinding down the roots is not a viable solution, as it can harm the tree and lead to its death. Schmitt Tree Service and Landscape can safely handle this process for you.

Contact Schmitt Tree Service and Landscaping

Dealing with exposed tree roots can be tricky, and it’s important to address the issue promptly to avoid further damage. If you’re facing a tree emergency or simply want to be proactive in maintaining the trees on your Connecticut property, Schmitt Tree Service and Landscaping is here to help with our complete tree and landscape solutions.

Our licensed and insured team offers professional tree care services, including root management, soil aeration, and tree removal. We work with both residential and commercial properties to ensure that your trees stay healthy and your property remains safe.

For more information or to schedule a service, contact us today, and enjoy your outdoor space with peace of mind.