Tree roots perform several crucial functions. For example, they access and transport water and nutrients, which all encourage tree growth. Roots also store food and anchor the plant to the ground. That is why your trees need well-developed roots. Here are a few measures that will help your trees develop strong and healthy roots:
Provide Nutrients for Root Growth
The first thing is to provide the trees with nutrients that help with root growth. These include potassium, phosphorous, vitamin B1, and auxins (hormones). Potassium and phosphorous are found in N.P.K fertilizers, bone meal, and rock phosphate, among others. Commercial products containing the root stimulators Vitamin B1 and the auxins hormones are also available. Use these nutrients under the guidance of a tree service to ensure the application is done correctly.
Don't Compact the Soil Around the Base of the Trees
Compacting the soil around the base of a tree will interfere with the growth of its roots. This happens because compaction reduces the water-holding capacity of the soil as well as its aeration. It also limits the roots ability to absorb nutrients from the soil. These interfere with the growth of the roots.
Therefore, avoid activities that can lead to soil compaction near the base of the trees. This means you shouldn't park a car, construct a pavement, use heavy machinery (such as construction equipment) or allow regular foot traffic at the base of a tree if you don't want to interfere with its roots.
Don't Excavate the Soil Around the Base of the Trees
Excavation interferes with root growth in multiple ways. First, it exposes the roots to mechanical injury and pest attacks. Secondly, it's easy to cut or bruise the roots during the excavation. Lastly, excavation interferes with the trees' ability to draw water by taking the roots out of the soil.
Therefore, when constructing a building, laying water pipes or repairing plumbing lines, try and avoid the areas around the trees you wish to keep. If that is not possible, then the excavations should be done in a careful manner to limit the extent of root damage. It may also be necessary to give a little more attention to the affected trees, for example by watering them, until they recover.
Hopefully, the above measures will help you to take care of your trees' roots, and by extension the trees. All isn't lost, however, if some of your trees have suffered root damage. Consult a Certified Arborist who will assess the damage and advise you on how to save the trees.
