What Is Root Collar Excavation?
Root collar excavation is the process of removing the soil and dirt from around the trunk of a tree to inspect the base. This is done to investigate the extent of decay that may be present or to view the structure of the roots to see if there may be a stem girdling root issue. Girdling roots are tree roots that have been misdirected and grow around or across the tree trunk causing tree health issues.
Often, if homeowners are seeing issues with the leaves or branches of the tree, it is a sign to inspect the root flare. If the tree was planted too deep, the roots can grow around the trunk of the tree, ultimately suffocating it. This is what is referred to as stem girdling roots. Although the tree may still grow, it will not be as strong.
Root Collar Excavation is used to thoroughly examine the root flare and determine the best plan of action to get your tree healthy and thriving once again!
Root Collar Excavation & Tree Base Inspection
Reveal hidden root issues and improve long-term tree stability through careful excavation and expert evaluation of the root collar and base.
Identify Girdling Root Issues
Expose and diagnose roots that are circling or constricting trunk growth.
Detect Decay at the Tree Base
Inspect the root collar area for signs of rot, damage, or structural weakness.
ISA Certified Arborist Assessment Report
Receive clear findings and recommendations based on a professional on-site evaluation.
Improve Long-Term Tree Recovery
Take corrective action early to enhance tree health, stability, and survival potential.
Wisconsin Root Collar Excavation Service with Detailed Results
Wachtel Tree Science uses a tool called an air spade which is powered by an industrial air compressor to perform this tree care service with precision while avoiding mechanical damage to bark tissue. Attention to detail is a crucial part of what makes a root collar excavation service successful. Our ISA Certified Arborists are well-trained in this process to ensure your trees are carefully inspected.
Frequently Asked Questions
Learn the most common causes, solutions, and benefits of root collar excavation and how it helps improve long-term tree health and stability.
What causes insufficient root flares?
Often root flares that are not visible have been covered by mulch or excess soil. Insufficient root flares may also be caused by stem girdling roots or other materials restricting their growth.
How can I prevent or correct the root collar problem?
Preventing excess soil and mulch from building up around the base of the tree is the best way to avoid problems. If they do occur, stem girdling roots may be pruned out prior to becoming embedded into the tree to allow the tree’s trunk to continue to grow in diameter.
What is a root collar exam?
A root collar exam involves taking away excess soil and mulch around the base of the trunk of a tree to review the root flare’s growing conditions. Often during the exam, if stem girdling or circling roots are found, they are pruned out as possible to allow the tree trunk to continue to grow in diameter. The area around the tree is generally left uncovered after the exam is completed.
How do you expose root flares on a tree?
Wachtel Tree Science’s method of exposing root flares usually involves the use of a compressed air system and hand tools to move soil and mulch away from the base of the tree. The compressed air system is able to move the soil without causing physical damage to the bark.
Where is the collar of a tree?
The root collar of a tree is at the base of the trunk where the first main roots attach to the trunk.
What is an air spade?
An air spade is a tool that uses compressed air to excavate and move soil particles out of the way. Often this is a tool that is used in root collar exams or air tilling around the base of trees.
How does a tree end up with roots that need a root collar exam?
Often trees that have had the root flare planted too low in relation to the ground around it will need to be excavated. Trees that have had too much soil and/or mulch placed around the base of the tree will benefit from a root collar exam as well.
How will a root collar exam help my tree?
A tree will likely have a prolonged life by having a root collar exam. Left unchecked, problems like girdling roots or other fungal problems can shorten a tree’s life if the root collar is not visible. A root collar exam can prevent these problems from occurring on trees. Schedule an exam with one of our ISA Certified Arborists to have your trees carefully inspected.
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