Soil compaction is a common problem in urban and suburban areas, thanks to high traffic and construction. In forests, the top six inches of soil is 50 per cent oxygen, but in the urban environment this number drops to 10 per cent. When the soil around a tree is compacted, it’s difficult for oxygen, water and nutrients to reach the tree’s roots, which creates stress and poor health in the tree.
Look for these signs in your trees if you suspect that the soil is compacted:
- Yellowing leaves
- Early colour change
- Early leaf drop
- Deadwood in tree canopy
- Poor growth
- Declining health in the tree
If you suspect that your trees are stressed and declining due to compacted soil, it’s time to call Capital Tree Service.
Decompacting soil around the tree requires aeration, and sometimes vertical mulching. The tools we use for aeration are not the same as those used for compacted grassy areas, which only penetrate the top few centimeters. Deep decompactors use high pressure aerators to break up the soil and add more room for both root growth and nutrient delivery. Shallow decompactors turn over the top 20-30 centimeters of soil with an airspade, allowing for greater water and nutrient absorption.
With vertical mulching, in addition to breaking up the soil and adding holes, we add organic matter, improving soil composition and delivering extra nutrients to the tree.
Whatever method is best for your situation, Capital Tree Services has the equipment and experience to improve the condition of your soil, and bring moisture and nutrients back to your trees.
