Partially uprooted trees seem bizarre and even a bit scary. They look like they’ll tear out of the earth at any moment, leaving behind a disastrous scene. It’s even worse if it’s on your property and your biggest concern is saving it – but can a partially uprooted tree be saved?
While arborists save some trees in this situation, certain conditions make it difficult or impossible to help others. Brooke Tree Service has 15 years of experience in providing some of the top tree care services in Holliston, MA, so we explain the two scenarios below.
What Causes Trees to Uproot?
Many factors cause uprooting, but only one happens instantly: storm damage.
For part of the year, Massachusetts is susceptible to tropical storms and hurricanes that bring high winds, lashing rains, lightning, and flooding. Excessive force and unusually high moisture levels easily damage a tree. A potential lean while dramatically or partially uprooting itself is common after a storm has done a number on your tree.
Other factors that cause uprooting include:
- Fungi, bacteria, and diseases weaken trees.
- Root rot or damage causes the tree to lose its anchoring foundation.
- Shallow, compact, or heavy clay soil that roots cannot penetrate or grab onto is also a problem.
Righting a Large Tree?
Can a partially uprooted tree be saved? Well, it takes more to aid a larger 40-foot tree than a smaller one, but it might be possible. Larger trees would have to lose at least 25% of their roots before they topple, and an arborist must help them regain that sturdiness.
To begin the partially uprooted tree recovery process, arborists intervene immediately, arriving with large machines like cranes and bulldozers. Carefully, they’ll right the tree without breaking limbs or snapping roots. From there, the uprooted tree treatment includes:
- Backfilling the hole
- Patting down the soil to remove air pockets
- Deeply watering the drip line
If the tree cannot remain standing, it has lost too many roots for tree root damage repair. Instead, the arborist may suggest disposing of the ailing tree.
Repositioning a Smaller Tree
Can a partially uprooted tree be saved if it’s smaller? Often, this process is easier.
Smaller uprooted tree restorations are easier since their roots are not as deeply tied to the earth. The root ball surfaces rather than snaps during tree uprootings, causing less root damage. The tree itself is also less heavy, meaning less breakage upon impact.
Tree stabilization methods include the arborist simply picking up and replanting the tree as they would a new one. They’ll carefully backfill the hole, pat the soil, water the area, and stake it as part of their partially fallen tree care. Expect a full recovery.
Find Out If You Can Save Your Tree Today!
So, can trees be saved after uprooting? Yes, but an experienced, capable specialist should examine the situation and proceed accordingly.
Can a partially uprooted tree be saved in Holliston, MA? You’ll know when you call (508) 613-5044 today! If you want to know anything, from tree rescue options to dead tree disposal tips, contact Brooke Tree Service.