In my last article, I discussed how construction negatively affects trees: by smothering roots from increasing grade; soil compaction from heavy traffic; root damage from digging; exposure to elements when select cutting; and damage to truck/crown from passing machines. Here are some pointers if a mishap does happen.
ROOT CARE:
- If you change the grade of soil near a tree, and compensate with a well or another type of barrier, monitor the irrigation and drainage. There should be a balance of how much water is retained and released. Optimal watering is a slow and deep soak over the entire root zone (1-3 times greater than height of tree).
- Mulching helps with moisture control and prevents further soil compaction. Read the article about mulching for detailed instructions.
- If soil compaction is an issue, soil aeration may be necessary. This can be done with a high pressure air-excavation device, or by hand, taking care to not damage roots close to the surface.
- Fertilizer is not recommended following damage from construction. Quick-release fertilizers contain salts that draw moisture out of roots into the soil, and added nitrogen encourages top growth at the expense of root growth.
TRUNK/CANOPY CARE:
- Remove lose bark with a sharp knife, taking care not to touch living tissue
- Any broken, torn, and diseased limbs should be properly pruned. DO NOT reduce canopy to compensate for root loss as this may stress the tree even more.
- Cabling and bracing may be an option, but is not a recommended do-it-yourself project. Talk to an expert.
- Please keep in mind that though wound dressings were once thought to be helpful, there is no scientific evidence to suggest that they provide any positive results.