Improper Planting Causes Girdling Roots

Yesterday, we discussed proper tree planting techniques. I also posed a question about this picture:

What is going on here? The answer is a Girdling Root. When trees are planted too deep, it is common for one root (or roots) to wrap around the trunk of the tree. As the root grows, it slowly girdles the tree, causing decline.

You may notice a girdling root because it causes leaves to drop from the tree at odd time. Girdling roots can also cause on side of the trunk to be flat, like in the picture below:

After big storms, have you seen giant trees that have simply fallen over? Many times this is because the fallen tree had been living with a girdling root.

What do you do if you think you have a tree with a girdling root? Call an ISA Certified Arborist. (We have almost 20 at Ryan Lawn & Tree.) Depending on the age and size of the tree, it may be possible to reverse the damage done by the offending root.