How Air Spading Resolves Problems With Girdling Roots

Girdling roots circle or partially circle a tree’s base or just below the soil surface. Why do roots girdle? How does it affect the tree? Is there a remedy for girdling roots?

Air spading can help you fix the issue. As seasoned residential tree care and inspection professionals, we’ll explore in greater detail how girdling roots occur, potential remedies, and more.   

What Causes Girdling?

Roots girdle primarily because of poor planting technique, such as a tree that’s raised in a small pot. Under normal circumstances where root systems have sufficient space, the roots grow away from the trunk. When developing roots have nowhere else to go, they start growing in a circle around the pot’s interior. However, once roots growing in a restricted space girdle to the point where the main roots grow large and stiff, the roots won’t bend. As a result, the tree will grow with girdling roots.  

Stem girdling roots may develop because of planting trees too deeply. Burying roots too deep starves them of oxygen and water, forcing the roots to grow up towards the soil surface before they eventually encircle the tree trunk. Dealing with surface roots requires professional intervention. 

Effects of Girdling Roots  

While roots that girdle other roots may be harmless, stem girdling roots actually choke the plant and restrict the flow of water and nutrients between the roots and the rest of the plant. Before long, the tree will struggle to get enough nutrients, grow weak, and eventually succumb to death.  

A girdling root may also affect a tree trunk’s appearance. Tree trunks usually flare out when they enter the ground, but stem girdling roots may prevent root flares.  

How Air Spading Works  

An air spade works by blowing air into the soil to gain access to a tree’s roots and correct root issues such as girdling. The tool injects a supersonic jet of air into the soil, effectively removing the soil and exposing the root system without causing any harm.  

Once you have exposed roots, a tree care expert can then prune the roots and correct any problems caused by improper growth or planting.  

Hire Professionals  

Air spading is a delicate process that requires professional expertise. In the hands of an untrained professional, an air spade can easily compromise your tree’s health. If you have a tree that needs air spading or root pruning, seek the services of an experienced professional.  

Contact Your Local Tree Care Experts for Help  

Rick’s PHC Certified Arborists offers the exceptional tree care your trees and shrubs need to stay beautiful and healthy long into the future. We keep up with the latest techniques in arboriculture and offer several tree services, including:  

• Residential tree care  
• Growth regulation service 
• Insect and disease control  
• Deep root feeding  

Call Rick’s PHC Certified Arborists at (610) 840-2655 to request a free quote for service in West Chester, PA. Feel free to reach us for more information on how air spading resolves problems with girdling roots or to learn about root collar excavation.