Root zone Excavation and Mulching Procedures
NOTICE: Results of a recent inspection of street trees by the City of Carmel revealed a main concern with the condition of street trees in Delaware Commons.
Proper mulching techniques to keep the trees healthy and alive:
1) Remove ALL mulch and excess soil. Remove material to the depth of the surrounding grade. Soil grade not grass height!
2) Any roots that are fibrous that are above the large structural roots (1-3” in diameter) needs to be removed. These roots are girdling (killing) the tree. Use sharp tools such as chisel and mallet, small hatchet or pruning shears. Cut flush against the trunk of the tree.
3) Any roots that circle the trunk of the tree need to be removed. On average these roots are the size of a pinky finger or smaller for this size of tree. The existing girdling roots range in size from thin (spaghetti size) to quite large at 1 ½” in diameter.
4) There should not be any soil around the tree that is above the surrounding grade. As of now there is soil piled 1’ or greater around Delaware Commons Maple trees.
5) After all excessive roots and soil are removed replace no more than 2-4” of mulch around tree. No mulch should come within 3” of the trunk. Mulch can kill the trunk due to water damage and disease, or harboring insects due to contact with the bark. Mulch is for water retention for the underground root system, to keep weeds to a minimum, and acts as a barrier to prevent lawnmower or other mechanical damage. Mulch should not be any higher than the grass height.
6) DO NOT hit the trunk with the shovel. Hand trowels work best to dig out soil.
7) Do not paint any tree wounds. Any insect spray can be applied however not necessary. Do not use those rubber mulch mats. The paint and mulch mats do not allow for proper aeration and water is retained which rots the tree.
8) Correct planting height is soil level should be no higher than the root flare.
It is the homeowner's financial responsibility to replace any dead tree. Proper maintenance and care will prevent tree loss.
This information is also helpful for any trees planted in your landscape and yard.
Copyright 2007 - Delaware Trace/Delaware Commons
Homeowners Association