If you have trees on your property, you might not think much about their roots. Root systems can spread deep and wide underground to stabilize the plants. However, those that grow or emerge above ground can be problematic.
Can you cut exposed tree roots? Our experts from Earthworks Tree Services share what Asheville, NC, property owners should know about root pruning, including the dangers of improper cutting.
The Importance of Trusting a Professional Tree Service in Asheville, NC, for Landscape Improvements
Including trees within your landscape can enhance its aesthetics, giving the land visual interest and natural shade from sunlight. However, it’s important to care for these trees, as negligence can affect their safety and appearance. Partnering with a professional tree service in Asheville, NC, helps optimize tree health and keeps these plants looking their best.
Tree care specialists have extensive experience and knowledge about local trees. They can assess their health, evaluate growth patterns, prune overgrown or unsafe branches, and identify their potential risks. They usually offer maintenance and emergency services to address everything from routine trimming and canopy shaping to severe storm damage and removals.
Learning about local tree service providers can help property owners make informed decisions about their tree care needs.
How Does Tree Root Exposure Happen?
Before learning the answer to “Can you cut exposed tree roots?” it helps first to know how the problem could happen. The most common reasons for root exposure include:
- Soil compaction: Dense soil can make it harder for roots to spread underground, causing them to shift upward toward the surface of the ground.
- Soil erosion: When soil shifts around a tree due to heavy rain or wind, it can expose roots that were previously under the ground’s surface.
- Age: Older trees have large roots that sometimes break through the surface over time.
- Species: Some species, including willows, maples, and poplars, are prone to having surface roots.
What To Know About Cutting Exposed Tree Roots
Tree root damage, including pruning cuts, can cause significant issues. However, pruning tree roots doesn’t automatically lead to the plant’s death or instability. The long-term effects of the service depend largely on the tree’s size and the location of the cut roots.
Removing large roots can impact tree health by reducing its ability to absorb water and nutrients. It’s not uncommon for larger surface roots to connect to smaller feeder roots responsible for nourishing the plant. Roots close to the trunk are also necessary for tree stability, so cutting those would likely cause critical health and structure issues.
Possible Dangers of Exposed Tree Roots
You may ask, “Can you cut exposed tree roots, or is it best to leave them alone?” if you’re dealing with this problem in your yard. Although cutting the roots can cause problems, leaving them exposed can also create several issues, such as:
- Increased trip and fall risk: Anyone walking on your property could trip and fall over surface roots. This risk heightens at night and when falling leaves cover them, making them harder to see.
- Vulnerability to damage: When roots emerge from the soil, they can sustain damage from foot traffic, lawn mowers, weed trimmers, and other environmental factors. The more damage the roots take, the more stress the tree will experience.
- Pest and disease exposure: Exposed tree roots can provide entry points for infestations and infections that can spread throughout the tree.
Best Way To Treat Exposed Tree Roots
Pruning isn’t always the best approach to dealing with exposed roots. It is risky and requires specialized care from local arborists. For extensive exposure or instability, removing the tree itself may be best to ensure the safety of the property.
If removing the tree isn’t necessary, you may cover the exposed roots with mulch. A blend of wood chips and high-quality soil will help nourish the tree while creating a visual barrier around the trunk to help minimize falls or root damage from lawn care equipment. For the best results, ensure the mulch layer isn’t more than four inches deep.
For personalized solutions, contact a tree care provider for an assessment and treatment.
Get Expert Help With Your Surface Tree Roots Today
Can you cut exposed tree roots and still keep the plant healthy and stable? Although root pruning is sometimes necessary, it’s best to leave the work to the professionals.
Earthworks Tree Services proudly offers comprehensive services for residents throughout Asheville, NC. Our arborists and licensed technicians have the experience, equipment, and knowledge to help local trees thrive. Contact us today at (828) 774-1984 to request assistance with exposed, unstable, or rotten tree roots.