Ever caught yourself wondering if covering those exposed tree roots with a little dirt could solve all your garden problems? Maybe you’re tired of the untidy look or worried about tripping over them. But before you grab the shovel, there’s something important to consider.
What seems like a simple fix could actually end up doing more harm than good. Curious? Keep reading to discover why this common “solution” might not be the best choice for your tree!
The Dirt Cover-Up: Not So Fast!
You might think piling soil on those exposed roots will fix the problem – get rid of the unsightly gnarls, cover up bald patches, and eliminate tripping hazards.
But before you go full-on landscaping mode, hold up! Covering the roots with a thick layer of dirt is actually a no-no. Why? Roots need oxygen to survive, and burying them under more dirt is like giving them an oxygen mask – except it’s blocked.
Oxygen-starved roots will begin to suffocate, potentially causing permanent damage to your tree. So, as much as you’d love to “fix” the look of your tree, this is a rookie mistake!
What’s Really Going On Underground?
If the roots are pushing up to the surface, there’s a reason for it. It’s not just a rebellious tree having a moment! Exposed roots indicate something is happening below ground – like compacted soil, lack of oxygen, or maybe even an underground traffic jam.
When soil becomes compacted or waterlogged, tree roots grow toward the surface to find air. Simply burying them won’t address the issue; it just hides it for a while.
Instead, think about what’s causing the roots to surface in the first place, and tackle the underlying problem to prevent more roots from showing up like uninvited guests at a party!
The Good News: There’s A Way To Keep It Light
Covering those roots with a heap of soil might not be the solution, but that doesn’t mean you’re out of options! Instead, think of ways to give those exposed roots a little love while keeping your tree happy and healthy.
Try spreading a light layer of soil or mulch – no more than three inches deep. Why so thin? Because those roots need to breathe, and too much coverage can suffocate them.
Mulch is your best friend here – it’s lightweight, breathable, and adds a clean, finished look to your yard. Just remember, no piling mulch into “volcanoes” around the trunk. Trees aren’t fans of that trend, and it’s bad for their health!
Want a splash of green? Mix a bit of soil with grass seed to create a soft, turf-like cover over the roots. It’s a temporary fix (those roots will likely reappear in a few years), but it’s a great way to freshen things up in the short term.
And when the roots peek back out, you can see it as a chance to rethink the space and add a new creative touch.
Get Air Flowing With Aeration
For those who like to dig deeper (pun intended), consider aerating the soil. Aeration loosens compacted dirt and improves airflow, making it easier for roots to get the oxygen they need.
It’s like giving your tree a breath of fresh air! If you’re not confident doing this yourself, no worries – there are professionals who specialize in aerating around tricky root systems.
Aeration can help reduce the likelihood of future root exposure, but remember, roots might still pop up from time to time. After all, trees gotta grow!
Instead of rushing for the shovel, take a step back and let those roots breathe – your tree will thank you!