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What is root flare and why is it important?

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25 Oct, 2024

What is root flare and why is it important?

When you plant a tree or shrub too deep, it can have catastrophic results for the plant.

We often see trees where the client is frustrated the tree just never seemed to take off and seems to have struggled for years to put on any new growth. The tree is often in poor health with stunted limbs and a lack of vigor.

Often, careful examination shows that the tree has been planted too deep causing the roots to be deoxygenated and struggling to respire effectively. Roots are living, growing organs that perform various functions, so they too need to absorb oxygen. This gas is found in the air spaces between soil particles and can enter roots via the fine hairs that cover their tips. When you plant too deep, the available oxygen decreases, which compromises the health of the tree’s roots.

Always plant your tree at the same level as the bag or where the “root flare” is.

The root flare is where the main roots (buttress roots) attach to the trunk and flare out and should not be covered. Trees should not look like a power pole sticking out of the ground and you should see that little flare at the base of the tree.

Dig a hole twice as wide as you need to. Always protect the root zone area, piling up construction materials under a tree for years will eventually have an impact on your tree’s general health. Do apply mulch but keep the mulch away from the trunk and never pile mulch high around the trunk of the tree to look like a volcano! Tree bark that is covered with mulch can rot over time present an entry point for pests and diseases and compromise the tree’s ability to distribute food and water to and from leaves and roots.

When you have invested money and time in purchasing and planting trees make sure you plant them right from the beginning to give your tree the best chance to thrive.