Air Spade
What is Air Spading?
The process of exposing buried root flares. The root flare is where the roots of the tree attach to the trunk.
The root flare needs to be exposed in order to:
The Effects of a Buried Root Flare
Over-mulching Causes Need for Air Spading
Mulch is a natural means of nutrient recycling, offers water conservation, and retains water moisture for the roots of the tree. It's just important to remember not to over-mulch which is really common and easy to do.
When mulching you should know:
What to know when Air Spading
The process of exposing buried root flares. The root flare is where the roots of the tree attach to the trunk.
The root flare needs to be exposed in order to:
- Facilitate proper gas exchange
- Discourage excess moisture around the stem (which can cause fungal issues)
- Discourage girdling roots (when roots grow in a circular or spiral pattern)
The Effects of a Buried Root Flare
- Fungal growth
- Root girdling (Roots grow in a circular or spiral pattern)
- Rodent damage (Rodents may use it as a habitat)
- Poor gas exchange (Tree can't breathe)
- Rotting at the base of the tree which can result in the tree breaking off at it's lowest point.
Over-mulching Causes Need for Air Spading
Mulch is a natural means of nutrient recycling, offers water conservation, and retains water moisture for the roots of the tree. It's just important to remember not to over-mulch which is really common and easy to do.
When mulching you should know:
- Mulch should be no more than 4 inches deep
- Mulch should not make direct contact with the stem
- Mulch doesn't need to be replaced just because the artificial dye fades
What to know when Air Spading
- Common places where Air Spading is needed would be places with new construction either residential or commercial.
- This process may need to be done in stages depending on the severity, because exposing the tree's root flare too quickly can shock the tree.
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