Do you have one or more trees in your yard with exposed roots? While this typically doesn’t cause any immediate need for concern, it can affect the long-term health of your tree.
Exposed roots are susceptible to pests and injury, which can subsequently have an adverse affect on the tree’s health. Furthermore, most homeowners don’t want to see exposed tree roots in their yard.
So, what’s the best way to deal with exposed roots such as this?
Why Some Trees Have Roots Exposed
First and foremost, it’s important to understand why this phenomenon occurs. There are a couple different reasons for exposed tree roots, one of which is the species/variety.
Certain species are more prone to this phenomenon than others, such as maples for instance. As trees age, their feeder roots will expand deeper into the soil, possibly pushing up its existing feeder roots.
Of course, another possible cause for exposed tree roots is the soil composition and landscape. Trees that grow in rocky, uneven terrain are more susceptible to this phenomenon than trees growing in rich soil on flat, even terrain.
Don’t Cover with Soil
Some homeowners may assume that the best course of action for dealing with exposed tree roots is to cover them with soil. While this may seem harmless enough, doing so may actually have a negative impact by restricting your tree’s intake of water.
Feeder roots are used by trees to absorb water from the ground. When the feeder roots are covered with an excess amount of soil, it may prevent them from obtaining the water they need to sustain good health.
Apply Mulch Instead
Rather than covering the exposed tree roots with soil, try using mulch instead. In addition to containing a greater concentration of nutrients, mulch is lighter and more “breathable.”
Once applied over the exposed roots, it will create a barrier of protection while allowing your tree to absorb water and oxygen.
So, what’s the best type of mulch to use on exposed tree roots? This depends on the types of trees you have in your yard. In the wild trees lose their leaves each year, which are then naturally composted around their bases creating a natural layer of mulch.
The mulch you use should ideally be made up of the same types of trees that are in your yard. This will provide a layer of mulch that is very closely matched to what you would find out in a forest.
Exposed tree roots rarely cause any serious problems, but many homeowners and property owners view them as an eye-sore. If you have exposed tree roots in your yard, try covering them with mulch (not soil).
It’s a quick fix that will protect the roots from damage while allowing them to breathe and absorb moisture still.
The Woodsman Company offers tree planting, tree pruning and shrub trimming, tree removal and stump grinding as well as a tree wellness program.
If we can help with any of your tree care needs give us a call at 512-846-2535 or 512-940-0799 or
An interesting article indeed. Little thought is given to exposed feeder roots. Apart from root collar exposure technique, caring for a tree’s feeder roots is also important. This article emphasises on that factor very well. The tip on using mulch to cover exposed roots is extremely helpful. Thanks!
On our park grass cutting round mature trees has been replaced by a large sit on mowing machine which is bashing pieces of ark off the exposed tree roots. As te mower ones round one can hear te a Chine hitting the roots.,and pieces of bark are frequently seen lying around.
Will this eventually kill te tree? Should I contact the council and make a complaint? Of course it is being one to save costs!