Tree Root Care, Part 2: How to Protect Exposed Tree Roots

While a tree’s root system is usually found deep in the ground, there are instances where the roots will start to curl or snake upwards until they reach the surface. There are a couple of reasons why this can happen. If the tree was planted on a slope, the roots may poke aboveground. Wind, rain and runoff can also erode the soil in a serious enough way that the tree roots become exposed. But no worries – there are a couple of things you can do to mitigate this. 

In Part 2 of our blog series, the expert in lighting design landscape, Backyard Reflections, shares how to cover and protect exposed tree roots in your outdoor space.

• Cover the exposed roots with mulch. Pruning the exposed root system is definitely a no-go since this not only makes the tree itself unstable and unhealthy, it can also put an end to the tree outright. You have the option to plant grass or flowers near the tree roots, but this is a bit trickier. To keep the tree safe and its root system intact, your best choice is to cover the exposed ones with a few inches of organic mulch.

This makes the landscape look cleaner and more aesthetically pleasing, while also keeping the roots moisturized. Apart from these, mulching the exposed tree roots helps discourage foot traffic near the tree and insulates them against extreme weather exposure. If you’d rather have a professional do this task for you, just call Backyard Reflections, the area’s top landscape design and outdoor living contractors.

• Take measures to avoid soil compaction. This means refraining from reburying the roots by piling on more soil. Once soil becomes too compact, the root system won’t be able to absorb the necessary moisture and oxygen. The same issue can happen if you’re having work done on your home or property. Mark or enclose the area around the tree with tape so the contracting crew knows to give the tree – and the exposed roots – a wide berth. Heavy foot traffic, after all, can contribute to soil compaction.

Schedule Your Outdoor Design Consultation

When it comes to high-quality landscape services, Backyard Reflections will always deliver. With over 20 years of experience and a commitment to full customer satisfaction, we’ll help you create and maintain the landscape and outdoor living space of your dreams. We proudly serve the areas in and around Annandale and Pequot Lakes, MN. Call us today at (320) 274-6336 or (218) 454-1065. You may also fill out this contact form to schedule your consultation. We’d love to hear from you!