What Are The Early Signs Of Root Problems With My Trees?
Root rot is one of the most common reasons trees start to decline, and can even lead to full removal. But what exactly is root rot, and how can a homeowner tell if their favorite trees are affected? We get this question a lot. Being informed about your roots’ health is the first step to making smart decisions that protect both your property and the trees you love. By the time most people notice something’s wrong, the damage can already be happening underground, but we want to help you keep that from happening. Continue reading to learn more about the early signs of root disease and what preventative tips and services Joseph Tree provides.
Understanding Root Rot
Root rot is when a tree’s roots start to decay or die. Any tree can become affected by root damage, especially when the ground around the base of a tree remains wet for long periods of time. Roots need water to survive, yes, but they also need air. When roots sit in soil that has been overwatered or has insufficient sunlight to dry the ground beneath the tree quickly, like a human, they can’t breathe. This weakens the tree, creating the perfect environment for fungi like pathogens, mold-like phytophthora, and other harmful bacteria to move in and thrive.
Why Does Root Rot Happen
Think of your tree roots like your basement. Now imagine that the basement was poorly ventilated and damp. The longer it stays wet, the more mold starts to accumulate. When it comes to trees, root rot operates pretty much the same way, and it starts out of sight. A few common factors can create the perfect conditions for root disease to take hold, including poor drainage or compacted soil, excessive watering, mulch piled too high around the base of the tree, planting trees too deep into the ground, and, yes, even winter de-icing salts getting too close to your greenery.
How Root Disease Spreads Tree to Tree
Humans aren’t the only ones that can pass along germs; plants can pass them along, too. Once a plant has root disease, it can spread from one plant to another through airborne fungal spores, insects, and even dirty gardening tools. Outdoor plants are the most susceptible since they’re usually closer in proximity to one another and exposed to more air movement and insects. However, don’t let your indoor plants fool you – they aren’t immune simply because they’re inside. While the spread may be slower, overwatering multiple houseplants or reusing uncleaned tools can allow root rot to travel from pot to pot.
How to Check for Root Rot
Time to get your hands dirty and channel your inner Olivia Benson, Tree Detective. Diagnosing root rot can not only get messy, but it can also be tricky. To get to the root of the problem, use your senses. Start with sight by carefully exposing the roots. For potted plants, gently slide the plant out of its container. For trees in the ground, we recommend hiring a professional so you don’t accidentally harm the root collar with heavy shovels. At first glance, healthy roots will appear white, whereas dark, discolored, or slimy roots are a clear red flag of root rot. Next comes touch. Healthy roots will feel firm, whereas roots suffering from root rot will feel mushy and soft in your hands; some might even completely crumble. Last, but not least, the smell test. Root rot has a very distinct smell – often giving off a foul, musty odor, kind of like a forgotten hockey gym bag and less like fresh laundry. If your tree or plant smells like that, that’s a very good sign that something isn’t right with your roots.
Circling Roots and Why They Matter
When inspecting roots in the steps above, keep an eye out for circling roots. These are roots that tie themselves up in knots instead of spreading outward. Left unchecked, over time, they can slowly choke your tree, restrict nutrient and water uptake, and make the tree more susceptible to root rot and other stress-related issues.
Common Above-Ground Yellow Flags of Root Rot
Root rot can be sneaky, but before picking up a shovel, your tree might already be giving you subtle hints of root rot above ground. For instance, have you ever noticed that leaves twist and flip when the air pressure changes before a storm? Well, tree roots do something similar; you just have to know what to be on the lookout for.
One of the most common signs of root rot is stunted growth, yellowing or wilting leaves, leaves with browned edges, scorched leaves, or droopy branches. As root rot progresses, this is your plant’s way of showing you that it’s beginning to struggle to absorb enough nutrients and water to survive. Bark that flakes or falls off to the base of the tree is another above-ground sign of potential root rot. In addition, while some trees have a noticeable lean, if a once straight tree suddenly starts to lean like the Leaning Tower of Pisa, it might be an indication of weakened roots.
Preventing Root Issues Around the Root Zone and Root Collar
Even healthy trees need a little TLC to stay strong. Keep the root zone and collar clear of compacted soil, and mulch two to four inches deep while keeping it a few inches from the trunk to avoid excess moisture. Regular inspections and proper pruning help prevent root issues before they start.
When to Get Expert Help
If you’re not sure whether your tree has root rot, it’s always best to call in a tree care professional. Since 2004, Joseph Tree Company has been helping Columbus homeowners spot hidden root issues and give honest assessments of what to do next. Our certified ISA arborists are experts at getting to the root cause, no pun intended, whether it’s a stubborn circling root, early signs of rot, or just wanting peace of mind.
Don’t Risk Your Trees’ Health
We provide estimates for pruning, tree trimming, tree removal, general tree and plant care, and preventative maintenance — all designed to keep your trees and landscape safe, healthy, and beautiful. Reach out to Joseph Tree Company today to see how we can help.