Getting to the Root of Tree Death

The life span of trees planted in our home and urban landscapes often falls far short of their typical natural duration. Linda Chalker-Scott of Washington State University thinks the primary reason that so many transplanted trees fail, is poor root development caused by improper but common planting methods. Through research and experience she has developed techniques to encourage healthy root development in transplanted trees and shrubs.

The roots of container grown plants are often forced into an unnatural growth pattern by the pot, often circling the bottom. If not corrected, these roots can girdle the plant. Careful pruning of the roots to correct form will also stimulate new root growth.

Traditional planting advice recommends that the rootball be kept intact as much as possible and that the soil of the planting hole should be amended. Chalker-Scott's research found that differences in the density of the planting soil or intact rootball and the surrounding soil inhibit water flow and root development. She recommends backfilling with the same soil that came from the planting hole.

Links:

• Planting Trees for Long Lives from Organic Gardening


• Linda Chalker-Scott, Ph.D. Linda Chalker-Scott's webpage. Follow the link to Horticultural Myths to read more of her findings about common horticultural practices.

Posted by Eric La Fountaine at 4:30 PM on November 9, 2005

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