Tree Roots at Surface - Ask Extension
We had this Serviceberry tree planted last fall and there was a watering bag around the tree. When I removed the bag for winter, I noticed these roots...
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Tree Roots at Surface #889243
Asked November 02, 2024, 5:58 PM EDT
We had this Serviceberry tree planted last fall and there was a watering bag around the tree. When I removed the bag for winter, I noticed these roots. I assume the roots grew up towards the water (the tree probably needed deeper watering). Should I cover these roots with dirt or mulch before the winter? Anything else I should do?
Hennepin County Minnesota
Expert Response
Thank you for writing.
Serviceberries have very shallow roots. https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/serviceberry-amelanchier-spp/ In addition shows some adventitial roots (above ground). Please do not use a water bag. They can cause softening and rot of the bark on the trunk.
For this winter, starting in about a month put a loose tree collar of steel mesh (hardware cloth) around the young trunk to prevent rabbits or mice from girdling the tree. Remove this in late March. I use 1/2 inch hardware cloth. Make sure that it cannot slide up or mice will tunnel under it.
Serviceberries have very shallow roots. https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/serviceberry-amelanchier-spp/ In addition shows some adventitial roots (above ground). Please do not use a water bag. They can cause softening and rot of the bark on the trunk.
For this winter, starting in about a month put a loose tree collar of steel mesh (hardware cloth) around the young trunk to prevent rabbits or mice from girdling the tree. Remove this in late March. I use 1/2 inch hardware cloth. Make sure that it cannot slide up or mice will tunnel under it.
Thank you! This is all new to me, so I appreciate the help and education.
On Nov 2, 2024, at 5:46 PM, Ask Extension wrote:
