As winter fades, the snow begins to melt. This reveals the hidden effects of the freezing temperatures on the ground. Frost heave is one of the most common issues that appears during early Spring when the snow starts to melt. This pushes the soil upward, thereby lifting the plants and roots and loosening the young trees. This also damages the root systems by drying them out.
For homeowners, this is the perfect time to conduct a simple thaw inspection around the trees and identify problems early, so they can take action before the growing season starts.
Deep root fertilization is a feasible tree root treatment in Edmonton that enhances tree growth by applying fertilizers. With professionals by your side, you can improve health and protect the trees.
Understanding Frost Heave Mechanics
When soil moisture freezes and expands during winter, frost heave occurs. The water freezes, pushing the surrounding soil upward. As winter recedes and temperatures rise, the ice begins to melt, and the soil settles back down. However, the ground surface becomes uneven.
How do freeze-thaw cycles affect tree roots?
Repeated freeze-thaw cycles throughout the winter loosen the soil around the tree’s root system. This movement affects the soil by:
- Exposing the shallow roots to freezing temperatures
- Lift the young trees slightly
- Cause drying out of the roots by creating air pockets
- Cause damage and dehydration to the exposed roots when the spring wind arrives
What is the remediation process?
Did you notice exposed roots during your inspection? Until you get professional help for tree root treatment in Edmonton, here are a few simple measures you can take:
- Add a layer of fresh topsoil to cover the exposure
- Add a layer of organic mulch to keep the temperature regulated
- Ensure that the soil is gently packed to remove the air pockets
Check for girdling roots
Girdling roots slowly strangle the tree as it grows, restricting the flow of water and nutrients. Hence, during root examination, homeowners should look for girdling roots. They grow in a circular pattern around the trunk.
Signs to watch for:
- Circular roots wrapped around the trunk and base of the tree
- Trees leaning despite a stable soil surface
- Slow or uneven growth of the tree, even in Spring
Identify and fix the issue before it causes long-term damage to your tree.
Identification of nutritional deficiency after winter
In most urban trees, due to compacted soil conditions, there is limited organic matter and nutrient deficiencies, which weaken the trees after winter. As the growing season approaches, you will notice pale or yellow leaves on these trees. The growth of the nutritionally deficient trees is also slow. You will also notice sparse canopy development in these trees.
How can deep root fertilization help?
This is an effective solution that injects nutrients directly into the soil around the roots, helping aerate compact soil. During this process, essential nutrients are delivered to the root system, encouraging strong root growth and canopy development. This service is particularly beneficial in April and May, when the trees brace themselves for active growth.
Avoiding the mulch volcano problem
While adding a layer of mulch is advantageous for root protection, applying it incorrectly can harm roots. Piling mulch often leads to a condition called a mulch volcano, which traps moisture and causes the tree trunk to rot quickly. This also leads to pest infestations and impairs smooth oxygen flow to the roots.
The correct mulching method is to keep the mulch 2-3 inches deep and apply it in a donut shape. This leaves a gap around the trunk and helps oxygen reach the roots.
Spring is thus an ideal time to inspect the root damage. With careful post-winter inspection and professional deep-root fertilizing treatment, you can give your trees the best chance to thrive in Spring.
Give your trees a nutrient boost after a long winter. Schedule Deep Root Fertilizing with Trusty Tree Services.
📞 Call us for a free estimate 780.860.5500
🔗 Visit our website to learn more https://trustytree.ca/
Trusty Tree Services supports municipal and utility projects while delivering safe, efficient tree care to industrial, commercial, and residential clients in the Edmonton and surrounding area.
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