Can you guess which part of the tree has the most important role in maintaining the tree’s health? Well, it’s the tree root that is mostly responsible for protecting the tree’s health. If somehow, tree roots get damaged, most likely it will cause major damage to the tree.
So, how to fix damaged tree roots? We are going to provide you with the solution through this article. It will fix the root issue and ensure the longevity of your favorite trees. But first of all, you need to identify the damaged root. Otherwise, you won’t be able to take the necessary steps at the proper time.
How to Identify Tree Damaged Roots?
Actually, identifying damaged roots at the very first step to fix the damage. the soon you can identify damaged roots, it will be easier for you to fix the issue.
Yellowing Leaves
Damaged roots cannot supply proper nutrition to the tree. As a result, that causes the tree leaves to get yellow. When you see this sign on your trees, you have to think about the tree roots to have a look.
Change In Posture
When a tree root gets damaged, it can’t provide enough support that the bark requires. Eventually, it causes an effect on the tree’s posture. If you find that there is a change in the tree’s posture without any external reason, it signals that there is something wrong from the inside.
Slow Growth
If you notice that the growth of the tree has slowed down, it indicates that the tree isn’t getting the proper nutrition. In most cases, a damaged root is the reason behind that. To fix that issue, you have to follow the steps that we are going to mention
Changes In The Soil
Making any changes to the soil such as digging or doing construction work near the tree roots can cause a significant change in the soil. That can cause damage to the tree roots. If you find anything similar with your trees, then you have to follow the below steps.
9 Steps to Repair Damaged Tree Roots
At this stage, you are completely aware of how to identify damaged tree roots. Now, it’s time to know about the action that you need to take. Here you go.
Proper Watering
Proper watering is a must for the tree to recover damaged roots. You have to water the tree properly. If the tree height is 200 cm, then you have to water 3 to 5 liters per day. For the trees having a height of around 200-400 cm, nearly 5 to 15 liters of water are required per day.
Organic Mulch
A layer of organic mulch around the base of the tree can fix the issue. You have to apply it near the base but not directly touching the trunk. It will retain soil moisture. As a result, it will protect roots from extreme temperatures.
Pruning Dead Branches
It may sound a bit strange but pruning is an effective method to fix damaged tree roots. When you trim damaged or dead branches, it will decrease the overall nutrition demand of the tree. As a result, the root recovery process will be much faster.
Root Excavation
Are you not getting proper results even after trying all the above steps? Well, you should try the root excavation process. You have to dig out the soul and expose the damaged roots. After that, you need to remove compacted soil, any debris, and other objects that might be affecting root health.
Root Pruning
When the root is not entirely damaged, you can prune the damaged portion to save the tree. To do the pruning work, you must use a sharp knife. Cutting the roots with a dirty knife can affect the growth of the roots.
Apply Root Hormones
Sometimes, a lack of hormones delays the process of root recovery. In that case, you can apply root growth hormones to the damaged areas to stimulate root development. It will enhance the healing process significantly.
Fertilization
When the roots get damaged, they can’t supply the necessary nutrients to the tree. Applying fertilizer can assists the tree with that. It will work as a booster for the overall tree health. You should use natural fertilizer.
Track Root Recovery Progress
You should monitor regularly to monitor the root recovery progress. Are there any signs of new growth and improved health? If you find any positive signs, it indicates that you are applying the necessary steps. When there is no recovery sign, then you need to change the steps that you are applying.
Consult With An Arborist
If you notice that the root has been damaged badly, you should consult with an Arborist to take proper steps according to the root condition. When the damage doesn’t seem too much, you can follow the above steps.
Final Words
At this point, you have got a comprehensive knowledge of how to fix damaged tree roots. The issue might seem like a challenge at the beginning. But with the proper care, you can recover it within a few months. It’s important to apply recovery steps to the damaged roots considering the severity level.
Frequently Asked Questions (F.A.Q’s):
How do you fix a damaged tree root?
To fix a damaged tree root, you should think about applying a layer of mulch to the soil surrounding the tree and replacing any lost soil with a layer of soil that is 3-4 inches thick. Another method that can be employed is radial trenching, which helps nourish and safeguard the tree roots while stimulating new growth.
Can tree roots be repaired?
A. If you follow proper steps like applying mulch, pruning dead branches, root excavation, and applying fertilizer then tree roots can be repaired.
How do you heal damaged roots?
A. You should apply proper water and fertilizer, organic mulch, and apply root hormones to heal a damaged root.
What kills tree roots?
A. Rock salt or Epsom salt is the main culprit that kills tree roots. Also, there are some herbicides that kill tree roots.
Can trees recover from root damage?
A. If the roots get damaged by ¼ of its overall portion, then the tree can recover from that damage. But when the root is damaged entirely, it’s too difficult to recover from there.