Is Your Tree Sick? Signs of Root Rot and Fungal Disease

Posted on November 5, 2025 by Completetree

Healthy trees enhance your property’s beauty and provide shade, clean air, and habitat for wildlife. But beneath the surface, unseen threats like root rot and fungal diseases can silently compromise tree health. Recognizing the early warning signs of these conditions is essential for protecting your landscape and preventing costly damage.

Root rot and fungal diseases account for up to 40% of tree mortality in urban environments. These conditions don’t always announce themselves with obvious symptoms, making vigilance crucial. Left unchecked, infected trees can spread diseases to healthy trees within a 50-foot radius, putting your entire landscape at risk.

This guide will help you identify the telltale signs of root rot and fungal growth in trees, understand what causes these problems, and learn when to call a professional tree service for help.

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What Is Root Rot and How Does It Affect Trees?

Root rot is a condition caused by fungal pathogens that attack a tree’s root system. When roots become waterlogged or damaged, opportunistic fungi move in and begin breaking down the root tissue. This process disrupts the tree’s ability to absorb water and nutrients from the soil, leading to a cascade of health problems.

The damage often starts underground, where you can’t see it. By the time visible symptoms appear above ground, the disease may have already progressed significantly. Understanding how to spot these symptoms early gives you the best chance of saving an affected tree.

Common Signs of Root Rot

Recognizing root rot symptoms requires careful observation of your tree’s overall appearance and growth patterns. Here are the most common indicators:

Stunted Growth: Trees suffering from root rot often show reduced growth compared to previous years. New shoots may be shorter and thinner than normal.
Yellowing Leaves: When roots can’t function properly, leaves don’t receive adequate nutrients. This deficiency typically manifests as yellowing foliage, particularly on the lower branches first.
Premature Leaf Drop: Affected trees may shed leaves earlier than usual or during seasons when they should be fully foliated.
Wilting Despite Adequate Water: If your tree appears wilted even though the soil is moist, compromised roots may be unable to transport water effectively.
Soft, Mushy Roots: If you can carefully expose some of the root system, healthy roots should be firm and white or light-colored. Rotted roots appear dark, soft, and may have a foul odor.
Thinning Canopy: The overall crown of the tree becomes sparse as branches die back from lack of nutrients.

Identifying Indiana-Specific Fungal Diseases in Trees

Fungal diseases present differently than root rot, though they can sometimes occur simultaneously. These infections typically produce visible growths or distinctive patterns that alert you to their presence.

Oak Wilt

This severe fungal disease poses a significant threat to oak trees throughout Indiana. Oak Wilt causes rapid defoliation and can kill a tree within weeks to months of infection. Oak trees are particularly susceptible, making early detection critical. Symptoms include browning leaves that start at the margins and progress inward, often with a distinct green-brown-tan pattern.

Dutch Elm Disease

Elm trees face this devastating fungal infection that has historically impacted Indiana’s urban forests. Dutch elm disease blocks water-conducting vessels in the tree, causing wilting and yellowing of foliage on one or more branches. Without intervention, infected elm trees typically die within one to two years.

Apple Scab

Common on apple and crabapple trees across Indiana, this fungal disease creates olive-green to brown spots on leaves and fruit. Severe infections lead to premature leaf drop and reduced fruit quality.

Anthracnose

This disease affects shade trees including sycamore, ash, and maple. Anthracnose causes irregular brown blotches on leaves, often following the leaf veins. Repeated infections can weaken trees over time, though it’s rarely fatal.

Powdery Mildew

Recognizable by its white or gray powdery coating on leaves and stems, powdery mildew affects numerous tree species throughout Indiana. While unsightly, it typically doesn’t cause permanent damage unless infections are severe and recurring.

Visible Signs of Fungal Growth

Beyond species-specific diseases, watch for these general indicators of fungal problems:

Mushrooms or Conks at the Base: Fungal fruiting bodies growing from the trunk base or major roots signal internal decay. These structures indicate advanced fungal colonization.
Bracket Fungi on Trunk or Branches: Shelf-like growths protruding from bark reveal that fungi have penetrated deep into the wood.
Cankers: Sunken, discolored areas on bark often indicate fungal infection beneath the surface.
Unusual Bark Texture: Cracking, peeling, or areas where bark appears abnormally soft may point to fungal activity.
Discolored Streaks: Cutting into affected branches may reveal dark streaking in the wood, a sign of vascular disease.

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Causes and Prevention of Root Rot and Fungal Diseases

Understanding what creates favorable conditions for these diseases helps you implement effective prevention strategies. Some common causes include:

Poor Drainage: Waterlogged soil suffocates roots and creates ideal conditions for root rot fungi. Heavy clay soils in many Indiana locations can exacerbate this problem.
Overwatering: Even well-meaning tree care can backfire when trees receive more water than they need, particularly in poorly draining soils.
Soil Compaction: Compressed soil around the root zone restricts oxygen availability and water penetration, stressing trees and making them vulnerable to infection.
Mechanical Damage: Wounds from lawn equipment, construction activity, or improper pruning create entry points for fungal pathogens.
Stressed Trees: Any factor that weakens a tree—drought, nutrient deficiency, pest infestation—reduces its natural defenses against disease.

Prevention Tips for Healthy Trees

Ensure Proper Soil Drainage: Before planting new trees, assess your soil’s drainage capacity. Amend heavy clay soils with organic matter, or create raised planting beds in areas prone to standing water.
Avoid Overwatering: Established trees typically need less frequent watering than you might think. Water deeply but infrequently, allowing soil to dry somewhat between waterings.
Use Mulch Correctly: Apply a 2-4 inch layer of organic mulch around trees, but keep it several inches away from the trunk to prevent moisture buildup against bark.
Sterilize Pruning Tools: Clean cutting tools with a 10% bleach solution or rubbing alcohol between trees to avoid spreading fungal spores.
Promote Good Air Circulation: Prune dense canopies to allow air movement through branches, which helps foliage dry quickly after rain.
Select Disease-Resistant Species: When planting new trees, choose varieties bred for resistance to common local diseases like Oak Wilt. Consult with a professional tree service for recommendations suited to your specific location.
Regular Inspections: Walk your property periodically to examine trees for early signs of disease, allowing for timely intervention before problems escalate.
Preventative Fungicide Treatments: For high-value trees or species known to be susceptible, consider professional fungicide applications during vulnerable periods.
Avoid Soil Compaction: Keep heavy equipment away from the root zone, which typically extends to the tree’s drip line or beyond.
Professional Soil Testing: Have soil analyzed to identify and correct nutrient deficiencies that might stress trees and increase disease susceptibility.

When to Seek Professional Help

Some tree problems require expertise beyond basic homeowner care. Knowing when to call a professional tree service can mean the difference between saving a valuable tree and facing expensive dead tree removal.

Contact a Professional When:

You notice multiple symptoms of root rot or fungal disease affecting the same tree. Advanced infections often require specialized treatment protocols that professionals can implement effectively.

Large sections of the canopy are dying back rapidly. This suggests aggressive disease progression that needs immediate expert assessment.

Fungal fruiting bodies appear on the trunk or major limbs. These growths indicate internal decay that professionals must evaluate to determine the tree’s structural stability.

You’re uncertain about diagnosis. Tree diseases can be difficult to identify correctly. Professional arborists have the training to distinguish between various conditions and recommend appropriate treatments.

The affected tree is near structures or high-traffic areas. Diseased trees pose falling hazards, particularly during storms. Professionals can assess risk and recommend safe courses of action.

What Professionals Can Do

Accurate Diagnosis: Certified arborists use systematic evaluation techniques and sometimes laboratory testing to identify specific pathogens affecting your trees.
Treatment Plans: For salvageable trees, professionals develop comprehensive treatment strategies that may include fungicide applications, soil amendments, and cultural practice modifications.
Risk Assessment: Experts evaluate whether diseased trees pose safety hazards and can safely remain on your property with treatment, or if removal is necessary.
Tree Removal: When trees are beyond saving, professional tree services perform safe, efficient dead tree removal that protects surrounding landscape features and structures.
Prevention Strategies: Based on site-specific conditions, professionals recommend preventative measures to protect remaining healthy trees from infection.

Wrapping Up

Early detection of root rot and fungal diseases gives you the best opportunity to save affected trees and prevent spread to healthy specimens. Regular observation, proper cultural practices, and prompt professional intervention when needed form the foundation of effective sick tree care.

Maple, oak, and elm trees deserve particular attention given their susceptibility to common Indiana tree diseases. These valuable shade trees represent significant investments in your property’s aesthetics and value, making their protection worthwhile.

If you’ve noticed concerning symptoms in your trees or want peace of mind about their health, don’t wait until problems worsen. Contact Us Today for a professional tree assessment. We will evaluate your trees’ condition and recommend the most effective course of action—whether tree removal or bracing for specimens that pose risks to your property or a referral to a certified arborist.

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Nurturing Trees from Below: A Guide to Critical Root Zone Care

Posted on October 23, 2024 by Completetree

Healthy trees are a vital part of any garden or landscape, offering shade, beauty, and a habitat for local wildlife. However, what’s often overlooked by gardeners, homeowners, and tree lovers is the importance of the area beneath the tree—the Critical Root Zone (CRZ). Understanding and caring for this underground area is essential for maintaining tree health and stability. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the CRZ, from its size and shape to protecting and enhancing it.

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Introduction to the Critical Root Zone of Trees

The Critical Root Zone (CRZ) is crucial for a tree’s health and stability. Often referred to as the “drip line,” this area extends from the trunk to the outer edges of the tree’s canopy. It is where the tree’s feeder roots are concentrated, which are vital for absorbing water and nutrients from the soil. The CRZ is like the tree’s lifeline, making it essential to protect this area from disturbances.

Understanding the CRZ is vital for anyone who cares about trees. It helps you know how to nurture your tree from below, preventing damage that could lead to poor tree health or even death. The CRZ is where a tree draws most of its sustenance, so any disruption here can significantly impact its well-being.

Understanding the Size and Shape of the CRZ

The size and shape of a tree’s Critical Root Zone can vary dramatically depending on several factors. One of the main influences is the tree species itself. Some trees have shallow root systems, while others send roots deep into the ground. These differences mean that the CRZ for each species will be unique, requiring tailored care.

Age is another significant factor in determining the CRZ size. Young trees typically have a smaller CRZ, which expands as the tree mat u res. This growth means that as your tree ages, you’ll need to adjust your care practices to accommodate its expanding root system. This adjustment is crucial for promoting long-term tree health.

Tree health also plays a role in the CRZ’s size. A healthy tree with robust growth will have a more extensive CRZ. Conversely, a tree under stress or suffering from disease may have a reduced CRZ. Regular monitoring and assessment of your tree’s health can provide insights into the state of its CRZ, allowing for more targeted care.

The Effects of Disturbance on the CRZ

Human activities can significantly impact the Critical Root Zone, often leading to adverse effects on tree health. Construction work, for instance, can disrupt the soil structure within the CRZ, damaging the roots and preventing the tree from absorbing necessary nutrients. Such disturbances can cause a decline in tree health, making it crucial to plan construction projects carefully.

Landscaping can also pose risks to the CRZ. Heavy machinery, changes in soil grade, or even excessive foot traffic can compact the soil, limiting the roots’ access to oxygen and water. Soil compaction is a common issue that can severely affect tree health. It’s important to consider the CRZ when planning any landscaping activities to avoid these problems.

Furthermore, improper management of the CRZ can lead to increased vulnerability to pests and diseases. When the CRZ is disturbed, the tree becomes stressed and more susceptible to infections, which can further deteriorate its health. Understanding the effects of disturbance on the CRZ is crucial for maintaining healthy, vibrant trees.

Practices for Protecting and Enhancing the CRZ

There are several practices gardeners and homeowners can adopt to protect and enhance the Critical Root Zone. One of the simplest methods is mulching. Applying a layer of organic tree mulch around the base of the tree helps retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and prevent weed growth. Mulching is an effective way to enhance the CRZ and promote tree health.

Watering is also crucial for maintaining a healthy CRZ. Trees require consistent, deep watering to ensure the roots receive adequate moisture. However, it’s important to avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Understanding the specific watering needs of your tree species is essential for optimal tree care.

Avoiding soil compaction is another critical practice. Keep heavy equipment and foot traffic away from the CRZ to prevent compacting the soil. If compaction has occurred, aerating the soil can help alleviate the problem and restore the CRZ to its natural state. These practices ensure that your tree’s CRZ remains healthy and supports vibrant growth.

Benefits of Hiring Tree Service Professionals

For homeowners who want to ensure their trees receive the best care, hiring a tree service professional can be invaluable. These experts have the knowledge and experience to assess and maintain the Critical Root Zone effectively. They can provide specialized services such as root pruning, pest control, and disease management, tailored to your tree’s specific needs.

Professional tree services can also offer guidance on how to care for your trees in the long term. They can recommend the best practices for your unique garden or landscape, ensuring your trees thrive year-round. This expert advice can be particularly beneficial for homeowners who are new to tree care.

By investing in professional tree services, you can maintain safe and beautiful trees on your property. Their expertise ensures that your trees remain healthy and stable while enhancing the overall beauty of your landscape.

Conclusion

The Critical Root Zone is the hidden hero of tree health, providing the essential nutrients and stability that trees need to thrive. By understanding the CRZ’s importance, size, and how to protect it, gardeners and homeowners can ensure their trees remain healthy and vibrant.

We’ve explored the factors influencing the CRZ, the impacts of disturbances, and the practices for protecting and enhancing this vital area. Whether through mulching, watering, or hiring professional tree services, there are numerous ways to support your trees from below.

Take the knowledge you’ve gained and apply it to your tree care practices. Your trees will thank you with years of beauty and vitality. For further resources or personalized guidance, consider consulting with a tree care professional who can help you nurture your green companions to their fullest potential.

Would you like some professional assistance with your yard’s trees? Contact Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 for affordable tree services in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding counties. We provide residential and commercial tree services, as well as certified arborist services.

Nurture Your Trees to Thrive with Deep Root Fertilization

Posted on July 11, 2024 by Completetree

Picture this – a lush, thriving garden with towering trees that exude health and vitality. This vision is achievable through an often overlooked, yet highly effective method known as deep root fertilization or tree injections. For homeowners, gardeners, and tree lovers, understanding and implementing this technique can make a world of difference. In this post, we’ll explore the ins and outs of deep root fertilization, its benefits, and how it can transform your green space.

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Understanding the Need for Deep Root Fertilization

Ever noticed your trees looking a bit under the weather? Signs like yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or sparse foliage may indicate nutrient deficiencies. Deep root fertilization provides a solution by delivering essential nutrients directly to the tree’s root zone. By targeting the areas where roots actively absorb minerals and water, this method ensures that trees receive the nourishment they need to thrive.

In urban environments, trees often compete with lawns and other plants for nutrients. Additionally, soil compaction from foot traffic and construction can limit root expansion and nutrient uptake. Deep root fertilization addresses these challenges, enhancing the health and longevity of your trees.

The Science Behind Tree Injections

Trees absorb nutrients primarily through their root systems, which spread out and down into the soil. Tree injections work by injecting nutrients directly into the soil at depths where feeder roots are most active. This bypasses surface-level competition and ensures that essential elements reach the roots effectively.

Nutrient uptake is facilitated by water movement within the soil. When nutrients are placed at the root zone, they dissolve in soil moisture and are readily absorbed by the roots. This method not only improves nutrient availability but also supports soil aeration, reducing compaction and promoting healthier root growth.

The Process of Deep Root Fertilization

Wondering how to get started with tree root fertilization? Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

First, gather the necessary tools, including a soil auger or probe, a pump or injector system, and the chosen fertilizer.
Start by assessing the tree’s root zone, typically extending to the tree’s drip line. Drill holes about 2-3 feet apart and 12-18 inches deep, ensuring an even distribution around the tree.
Next, prepare the fertilizer solution according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Use the pump or injector system to inject the fertilizer into the prepared holes. Ensure the solution penetrates deep into the soil, reaching the feeder roots.
Finish by watering the area to help distribute the nutrients and encourage absorption.

Choosing the Right Tree Fertilizer

Selecting the appropriate fertilizer is crucial for the success of deep root fertilization. Various types of fertilizers are available, each catering to specific tree needs. Common options include slow-release, liquid, and organic fertilizers.

Slow-release fertilizers gradually release nutrients over time, providing a steady supply to the roots.
Liquid fertilizers, on the other hand, offer immediate nutrient availability, perfect for trees in need of a quick boost.
Organic fertilizers, derived from natural sources, improve soil health while supplying essential nutrients.

Consulting with a tree care professional can help determine the best fertilizer for your specific trees and soil conditions. By choosing the right product, you’ll ensure that your trees receive the optimal blend of nutrients for healthy growth.

Timing and Frequency of Tree Fertilizer Injections

When it comes to tree injections, timing is everything. The best times to fertilize are during the growing seasons, typically in early spring and late fall. These periods align with the tree’s natural growth cycles, allowing for maximum nutrient uptake.

Frequency of fertilization depends on several factors, including tree species, soil conditions, and overall health. Generally, deep root fertilization is recommended once or twice a year. However, trees showing signs of severe nutrient deficiency may benefit from more frequent applications.

Monitoring your trees’ health and consulting with a tree care expert can help establish a fertilization schedule tailored to your landscape’s needs. Regular fertilization ensures that your trees receive consistent nourishment, promoting robust growth and vitality.

The Benefits of Tree Injections

The advantages of deep root fertilization go beyond merely addressing nutrient deficiencies. This method offers long-term benefits that significantly impact tree health and growth. Deep root fertilization enhances root development by fostering an environment conducive to growth. Healthier roots lead to stronger, more resilient trees capable of withstanding environmental stresses such as drought, pests, and disease.

That’s not all; properly fertilized trees exhibit improved foliage density and color, contributing to a more vibrant and aesthetically pleasing landscape. Another notable benefit is the increased resistance to diseases and pests. Well-nourished trees are better equipped to fend off attacks from harmful organisms, reducing the need for chemical treatments and promoting a healthier ecosystem.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While deep root fertilization is highly effective, certain pitfalls can hinder its success. Avoiding these common mistakes ensures that your efforts yield the best results:

▷ Over-Fertilizing: One of the primary errors is over-fertilization. Excessive nutrients can cause root burn and damage the tree, leading to detrimental effects. Always follow the recommended dosage and frequency for your chosen fertilizer to prevent this issue.

▷ Ignoring Soil Health: Another mistake is neglecting soil analysis. Understanding your soil’s composition and nutrient levels helps in selecting the appropriate fertilizer and application rate. Conducting a soil test before starting deep root fertilization provides valuable insights for a tailored approach.

▷ Improper Spacing: Lastly, improper hole spacing and depth can limit nutrient distribution. Ensure that holes are evenly spaced around the tree’s root zone and at the correct depth to reach the feeder roots effectively. Proper technique guarantees optimal nutrient absorption and tree health.

Cost Analysis of Deep Root Fertilization

Investing in deep root fertilization may seem like a significant expense, but the long-term benefits outweigh the initial costs. The price of deep root fertilization varies based on factors such as the size and number of trees, type of fertilizer, and labor involved.

On average, homeowners can expect to spend between $100 and $300 per tree for professional deep root fertilization services. While this may seem steep, the return on investment is substantial. Healthy, well-maintained trees not only enhance property aesthetics but also increase property value.

Furthermore, the cost of tree injections is offset by reduced expenses on pest control, disease management, and tree replacement. A thriving tree landscape contributes to a beautiful and sustainable environment, making the investment worthwhile.

Conclusion

In summary, deep root fertilization stands as a powerful tool for nurturing tree health and enhancing your landscape. By delivering essential nutrients directly to the root zone, this technique promotes robust growth, disease resistance, and overall vitality.

For homeowners, gardeners, and tree lovers, implementing deep root fertilization can transform your green space into a thriving oasis. Consider consulting with a professional to assess your trees’ needs and develop a tailored fertilization plan.

If you’re ready to see your trees flourish, take the next step today. Contact Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 for licensed and insured tree services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve both residential and commercial clients all throughout Central Indiana.

The Parts of a Tree: A Comprehensive Guide

Posted on February 16, 2024 by Completetree

Trees, with their silent whispers in the wind and stoic presence in the face of time, represent an enigma that stands out in our natural landscape. They are much more than just a collection of leaves or a fixture in your yard. Every part of a tree, from the complex root system underground to the smallest twigs that sway in the breeze, plays a unique and essential role in the tree’s lifespan and the broader environment.

In this in-depth guide, we’re peeling back the layers of arboreal anatomy for botanists, nature enthusiasts, and curious minds who want to appreciate the intricate design that allows trees to reign over the Earth with such grace. Understanding the inner workings of a tree isn’t just an academic fascination — it can transform how you care for your backyard giants and how you view the forests you roam.

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Basic Tree Anatomy

Tree Root System

Beneath the surface, where many don’t think to look, tree roots form a complex network that sustains the living sentinel above. Roots are not just a structural support. They are the tree’s mouth, nose, and digestive system all rolled into one. They anchor the tree securely in the ground and absorb water and nutrients from the soil with precision that modern pipelines envy.

Common Types of Tree Roots:

Taproots: Round and sizable, they are the main support for some tree species like oaks and pines.

Fibrous Roots: A tangled mess of delicate roots are great soil stabilizers and nutrient absorbers, common in many shrubs and grasses.

Adventitious Roots: These special roots, which arise from unusual places like stems and leaves, provide additional support or serve as an anchor on rough terrain.

Tree Trunk and Bark

From the outside, the tree trunk is a protective layer of bark. Beneath the surface, it’s a thick fortress of wood, tough enough to withstand the elements and provide support for the leafy crown. Bark isn’t just tree skin — it’s a living, breathing armor that shields against pests, pathogens, and extreme weather. Its colors and textures are as varied as the tree species, each with their own healing, insulating, or camouflaging properties. Slicing through the trunk reveals a story written in concentric circles — the growth rings. They chart the successes and struggles of each past year, providing a remarkably accurate biographical sketch of the tree’s evolving ecosystem.

Branches and Twigs

The framework of a tree extends itself in almighty branches and delicate twigs. How a tree extends its reach can tell us a lot about its species and its history. Branching isn’t random; it’s a response to light, competition, and genetic predisposition. Twigs are the explorers, seeking out the best spaces for leaves to capture sunlight and fulfill the tree’s photosynthetic dream.

Pruning for Health and Aesthetics

Understanding how trees grow can guide us in the art of pruning. Done right, it improves airflow, encourages healthy new growth, and can even save a tree from toppling over in a storm it otherwise might not have survived.

Leaves

Leaves are a tree’s green machines, transforming sunlight into food and oxygen. Leaves come in all shapes and sizes, from the spindly pines to the broad oaks. Each form speaks to the tree’s unique evolutionary path and ecological niche. A leaf’s anatomy is a marvel of natural architecture, optimized for maximum surface area and exposure to the sun. Chlorophyll is the star of the leafy stage, absorbing sunlight and giving leaves their green hue. Discover how this molecule is the bridge between the tree and the sun that sustains life across the globe.

Flowers and Fruits

The reproductive cycle of trees is a wondrous spectacle, often missed in the serene grandeur of their presence. A tree’s ultimate goal is to pass on its heritage. Many trees rely on wind, insects, birds, and even mammals to move pollen from one flower to another. It’s a cooperative effort that encapsulates the interconnectedness of nature. Fruits are nature’s packaging for seeds, often delicious and colorful invitations for creatures to help in the tree’s grand seed dispersal plan.

Conclusion

Trees are more than the sum of their parts. They are complex, living organisms that warrant respect and understanding. By appreciating the intricate details of a tree’s anatomy, we gain a deeper connection to the natural world and the responsibility to preserve it for future generations. As you journey through the woods or pause to feel the rough embrace of a tree’s bark, remember the complex life happening in every fiber. And when you return home, adorned with leaves and awe, let that knowledge inspire the care you give to your own arboreal companions.

Are you in need of expert tree service within the Indy areas? Look no further than Complete Tree Care! We specialize in residential and commercial tree services in Indianapolis, as well as storm damage. Contact us today at 317-783-2518 for a quote!

Facts About Stem Girdling Tree Roots

Posted on July 15, 2020 by Completetree

When you imagine the roots of a tree, you likely envision a sprawling root system that expands both above and below ground, and out away from the tree. You would not, however, picture a tree’s root system wrapping itself around the base of the tree. But this odd root behavior is actually possible; a phenomenon known as tree root stem girdling.

Continue reading to learn more about stem girdling tree roots, including what causes them and what you can do about it.

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Trees With Girdling Roots

When the roots of a tree grow in a way that circles around the trunk, it is called stem girdling. This defunct growth can occur above ground and beneath the soil. Roots will appear as if they are strangling the tree, causing it to suffocate; and this is not far from reality. Stem girdling tree roots can in fact reduce or block a tree’s ability to get properly distribute nutrients and water to the rest of the tree.

Common Causes

Stem girdling can happen to any type of tree, but here in Indiana, the most common trees to experience root girdling are maple and linden trees. There are many reasons why tree roots grow in a girdling fashion, but the most common reason has to do with the manner in which the tree was planted. Improper tree planting can cause a long list of problems, including poor tree health. A common side effect of poor tree health is root girdling.

Common improper tree planting practices that can pose a girdling risk include making the hole too small or too deep, or not loosening up container roots prior to planting. Even post-planting improper tree care can lead to stem girdling roots, such as applying too much mulch against the trunk of the tree.

Detecting Tree Root Girdling

It is easy to detect tree root girdling when the roots are above ground, but when they are below, you will have to learn the signs in order to spot them. The most tell-tale signs of below-ground tree root girdling include thinning canopies, bare branches, dead branches, and leaf discoloration. Also, if the trunk looks like it goes directly into the ground, without any curved taper at the base, it could be indicative of girdling.

Solutions For Trees With Girdled Roots

The only way to solve a stem girdling tree root problem is to dig up the base of the tree, chisel down the roots, and apply the best practices for tree care. Talk to a local Indianapolis tree service expert for tree care advice and assistance you can trust.

Professional Indianapolis Indiana Tree Services You Can Count On

Call Complete Tree Care at 317-783-2518 for prompt and professional Indianapolis tree services you can afford. We are experienced tree care technicians that can resolve your tree problems, regardless of your projects size or scope. We offer a wide range of tree removal and tree services, for both residential and commercial properties. We even offer free estimates and free tree care advice!