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Exposing Root Flare
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Author:  Richard J. Bryant [ Wed Jul 30, 2003 9:06 pm ]
Post subject:  Exposing Root Flare

I am somewhat confused as to the borderline existing between exposing the root flare and causing harm to the tree by digging, cultivation, etc. We bought an older home (built 1964). The location is on the South side of Lake Lewisville in Highland Village. Red clay, rocks, practically no good soil, heavily wooded with mature trees (some dead when we bought the property), burr oak among the various varities of native trees as well as 5 mature pines (I am not so concerned about the pines even though right now they are shedding enormous amounts of needles). Original construction as well as erosion has resulted in the covering of almost all the trees' root flare. Tree condition ranges from moderately well off to struggling. I have not lost lost any trees since we moved in, largely, I believe, because I have been following Howard's advice and material usage (saved one Oak which is doing magnificently well now), but I am concerned about harming or losing the trees by having to dig as deep as it appears I must, in most cases, to expose the flare. Also, my actions will probably bring about a substantially deep pocket around the trees on the flatter areas. Advice....Directon to take? Thanks

Author:  The Ent [ Fri Aug 01, 2003 10:28 am ]
Post subject: 

Dig as far as you need to to expose the root flare. How much soil is removed is not of consequence in the same way as it would be in the question of adding soil, such as someoen adding soil to level a spot.

The root flare and the roots about 2½ to 3 feet out can safely have their top side exposed. Also if you think a significant amount was added the the overall root zone, having that thinned back a bit will help, as will as much aeration as you can do.

Getting those root flares exposed, aerating, and hitting it with the ol sick tree treatment ought to do wonders.

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