Trees can slowly weaken and die over a period of years or decades because of root girdling. Roots begin to grow around the main stem of the tree and cut off or restrict the movement of water, plant nutrients and stored food reserves. This is largely due to a number of inappropriate planting practices.
Over time, growth of the branches on the side of the plant affected by the girdling will be slowed. As injury progresses, leaves will become smaller and lighter green, fewer leaves will be produced, and eventually the branch will begin to die back. Death of the entire plant can occur in five to 20 years; watering, fertilizing and pruning will do little to correct the problem.
Certain trees are more prone to this problem than others. Lindens, magnolias, pines, and maples are susceptible to root girdling. On the other hand, oaks, ash, and elm are known for their ability to form functional root grafts and are rarely adversely affected by girdling roots.
Normal trees have a gentle trunk flair or buttress at their base. (Fig. 4) Trunks that grow straight up from the ground as though they were a telephone pole (Fig. 1) can be suspected of having girdling roots (Fig. 2). Trunks with a straight side or a concave depression on one side may also have a girdling root.
Development of girdling roots is not well understood but is normally thought to be the result of unfavorable conditions which prevent roots from growing out in a normal
Restricted root space–such as tree pits in urban areas–also may result in girdling roots. There is some suggestion, too, that constant mulching, a practice that builds “volcano” piles around trees, may cause the formation of girdling roots.
For trees susceptible to root girdling, an inspection should be made when the tree is approximately six inches in diameter. A positive diagnosis can only be made by exposing the roots. Soil is carefully removed with an air excavation tool to a depth of at least 12 inches, with care taken to prevent mechanical injury to the roots. If girdling roots are found on a plant with known susceptibility, the girdling root must be removed, a process normally carried out with a
hand chisel.
Possible Indications of Stem Girdling Roots:
- No visible root flare at soil surface.
- Trunk looks like a telephone pole going into the soil.
- Trunk appears pinched at soil surface.
- Trunk is flattened on one or more sides.
- Tree canopy is thin or sparse.
- Die-back in upper tree canopy.
- Leaves are wilting, scorched, or smaller than normal.
- Leaves may be off-colored (yellow).
- Trees exhibit early fall color and leaf drop.
Removing a girdling root is a wound in its own right. Yet, while the correction of the problem can stress the desirable plant, the likelihood of the plant dying is greater if no action is taken. Conducting a preventative inspection when the tree is about six inches in diameter will assist in correcting the problem before it becomes serious. If the inspection reveals girdling and a considerable amount of damage, the most prudent move may be to replace the tree.
Hardwick Tree Care is on the forefront of tree root care technology. As a Certified arborist, we have the knowledge and equipment for proper diagnosis and treatment of girdling roots, among other tree diseases. Call us today at 614-746-6756 for a free estimate.
