Why it Is not a Good Idea to Add More Soil to Tree Roots that Are Already Exposed

You may be tempted, if you see tree roots on your land, to cut them off or to cover them with more dirt. Either of these options can result in a much bigger problem for both the tree and you.

In this article, we will show you why you shouldn't cut exposed roots of trees or add soil on top. You could endanger your tree by doing either. We'll also look at ways to remove tree roots from the ground without cutting them or covering them.

Cutting Roots Is a Danger

Why cutting tree roots that are exposed could be problematic.

• You could damage the tree by cutting the exposed roots. This could lead to your tree becoming unhealthy. Unhealthy trees are a problem. It could cause injury to your property, property damage, or even death. You should contact an arborist if you believe a tree has died or been damaged.

• Kills the tree. A tree root that is exposed can cause enough harm to the tree to make it dead. You might be cutting a primary root that provides nutrients to the tree because it is impossible to gauge the root system's underground appearance. Your chances of the tree ever surviving are greatly reduced if this is the case.

• Stability of trees is compromised. Trees that are unstable pose a danger to property and people. A tree that is unstable can cause severe property damage, injuries, or even death. This is especially true for areas with extreme weather patterns, which is why it's important to prune your tree regularly.

• It deprives the tree of nutrients. The root that you cut might be a major supply of nutrients or water for the tree. This vital flow of nutrients, water, and energy to the main portion of the tree will be interrupted if you cut the exposed root. The tree may become unstable, sick, and unsafe.

Problems associated with adding more soil

Adding soil to solve the problem will not help either. Doing this will:

• Avoid underlying problems. Tree roots are designed for spreading under the soil's surface. It could be an indication of a greater problem like soil erosion if tree roots are exposed on your property.

• Can deprive trees of nutrients. Covering exposed tree roots with soil could prevent them from receiving enough oxygen (yes, they do need oxygen). This may be why roots reach the surface.

Dealing with exposed tree roots

• Mulch and compost can be used to cover roots. Mulch does not have the same density or weight as soil, an alternative ground cover that could be used for the exposed roots. Because it is lighter, compost has more pore space and allows oxygen to penetrate the soil deeper. This makes it a good medium for planting groundcovers like Jasmine and Vinca Minor. You should make sure that the groundcover is not too dense to smother the root.

• Limit access. Another option is to restrict access to the area where the root(s) are exposed. This will decrease the chances of the root getting damaged or someone tripping over it.

• Add foliage. This will depend on where the root(s), or other exposed areas, are. This will discourage foot traffic and help hide any visible root(s). Be aware that deer-attractive plants can cause you additional problems.