Healthier Roots Result in Healthier Trees
The tree root training method is kind of a cheat code that can help your trees to grow much more quickly than traditional tree planting methods. The technique guides and manipulates the development of a tree’s root system to ensure the tree establishes a strong and stable foundation.
Proper root training helps ensure that trees are more resilient to environmental stress, have better access to nutrients and water, and are less likely to cause damage to their surroundings.
Root training can be particularly important in urban environments or on tighter suburban lots in North Texas where space is limited. While great for smaller plots, it can prevent issues like circling roots in a container grown tree.
An Overview of Tree Roots
Strong Tree Roots Will Give this Sapling a Great Chance for Success
Before we take a deep dive into root training, we need to take a look at tree roots and how they support the tree.
Anatomy of Tree Roots
The tree root system consists of the main root known as the taproot, supported by lateral roots and a dense mat of root hairs. The taproot grows deep into the soil to anchor the tree and access water from deeper layers.
Lateral roots extend outward to provide additional support and gather nutrients. The root hairs, tiny and numerous, increase the root’s surface area, ensuring maximum absorption of water and nutrition.
Root Function and Tree Health
Healthy root growth is vital for a tree’s overall vitality. The root system provides anchorage and nutrition, allowing trees to thrive in various conditions. You must protect the root ball during planting; it contains the bulk of the tree’s root growth.
A strong root plate—the uppermost roots—helps support the tree. The roots’ ability to adapt and explore the surrounding soil makes them proficient at securing resources, which is critical for their health and the longevity of the tree.
Root Development Stages
As a seedling emerges from germination, it relies on the stored food within the seed until it can photosynthesize. During this phase, primary roots grow downward to anchor the plant, giving it stability while the secondary roots branch out in search of water and nutrients. For mature trees, this root system expands and becomes more complex to support its growth.
Root growth adapts to environmental factors, including soil pH levels, available nutrients, and moisture content. You must ensure the right balance for healthy development:
- Oxygen: Vital for root health, low soil oxygen can stunt growth.
- Nutrients: Necessary for all growth stages, deficiencies can impair root development.
- Water: Roots seek water for survival; too much or too little affects growth negatively.
- pH Levels: Incorrect soil pH can block nutrient uptake.
- Seasons: Root development often slows or accelerates with changing seasons, affecting water and nutrient needs.
The Root Training Method
Now that we understand how tree roots work, we can discuss how root training can enhance the overall health of the tree as well as promote faster growth.
The Root Training Method Can Allow Trees to Grow Three Times Faster. A Very Interesting Video – Worth a Watch for the Perfectly Dug Round Hole
Key Principles of Root Training
Root Pruning
This involves cutting the roots of a tree to encourage the growth of new feeder roots closer to the trunk. It’s often used in nurseries on young trees to prepare them for transplantation.
Air Pruning
Containers or pots that have air holes or are made from porous materials can be used to grow trees. When the roots reach the edge and are exposed to air, they naturally prune themselves through dehydration, which encourages the growth of a more fibrous root system within the container. These newly formed lateral roots enhance stability of the tree and enhance the intake of nutrients.
Biodegradable Containers (Root Trainers)
These containers are designed to promote downward root growth. These containers break down over time once planted in the ground. They prevent root circling and allow roots to expand naturally into the surrounding soil – instead of girdling roots, which is a process where roots circle around the pot and eventually strangle the tree. The containers often make use of ridges that promote air pruning as well, resulting in a stronger foundation for your tree.
Root Barriers
Physical barriers are installed in the soil to direct root growth away from sidewalks, foundations, and other structures that could be damaged by invasive roots before they ever have a chance to cause problems..
Soil Management
To optimize root health and nutrient uptake, you need to manage the soil pH and nutrition. Ideal pH levels vary by tree species, but most trees thrive in slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0-7.0).
Conduct a soil test to determine your soil’s current state. If pH adjustment is necessary, use lime to raise the pH or sulfur to lower it. Balanced soil pH enhances nutrient availability, whereby trees efficiently use nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. These nutrients are critical for root development and overall tree health.
Nitrogen promotes leaf growth, which in turn supports root growth. Phosphorus is also important for root development. Potassium helps to boost the overall resistance of the tree to both disease and pests.
Planting Depth
Planting a tree at the correct depth is crucial for proper root development. Trees planted too deeply can suffer from reduced oxygen availability, while those planted too shallowly may not have enough support. The root flare is the area at the base of a tree trunk where it widens and transitions into the roots. Proper root training ensures that the root flare isn’t buried – which can lead to long term problems for the tree.
Radial Trenching (Established Trees)
This technique is used for established trees. Trenches are dug in a radial pattern away from the tree to encourage roots to grow outward in a more natural and stable pattern.
Trees without properly established roots will be more susceptible to disease and damage from storms
Watering Practices for Strong Roots
Adopting effective watering practices is vital for nurturing strong tree roots. Your approach to watering can make a significant difference in the health and stability of your trees.
Deep Watering Technique
You can promote robust root growth by deep watering. This method involves slowly soaking the soil, allowing water to penetrate deeply and reach the roots where it counts. Start by watering less frequently, but more thoroughly, which encourages roots to grow deeper in search of moisture. To implement this technique efficiently, use a soaker hose or drip irrigation system to apply water directly to the root zone.
Drip irrigation for tree roots involves slowly soaking the area beneath the tree to allow the tree roots to get much needed water. Be careful to not overwater as this can lead to root rot.
Preventing Overwatering
While deep watering benefits your trees, it’s crucial to avoid overwatering which can lead to root rot. Ensure your soil offers good drainage; soil that remains soggy creates an environment where harmful fungi thrive.
