Protecting your trees during any kind of construction is an important way to ensure they stay healthy and strong
Whether you realize it or not, construction work is a significant cause of tree damage or loss. In order to protect trees during construction, it is important to identify the trees and the steps required to protect them before construction starts. By taking inventory of the trees and what precautions should be followed, you will reduce the chance that they will be harmed during construction.
Important note: As with most construction, compacting the soil and changes in grading can have negative effects on a tree’s root systems. If not accounted for, these changes can lead to stunted growth or even death of the tree.
Protecting trees during construction : The basics
There are a number of ways to protect trees during construction. Outlined here are some basic guidelines you should follow to help ensure your trees survive (and thrive) after construction.
- Call a Certified Arborist to come out and do a tree assessment prior to construction to determine the overall health of your trees.
- Have a conversation with the construction team to avoid damage to trees on the worksite.
- Prevent large machines from compacting soil or damaging roots under tree canopy (this includes consistent parking of small or large vehicles or machinery.) Avoiding compacted soil helps oxygen and water to flow more freely throughout the root system.
- Post high visibility fences around trees beyond the drip line. (For smaller trees, at the drip line is adequate.)
- Prohibit storing of construction materials, especially chemicals, beneath trees.
- Avoid excessive amounts of soil around the tree base. (This prevents air circulation.)
- Add a layer of wood chips (mulch) 4-6” deep under branches helps prevent compaction.
- Make sure roots are receiving adequate water. (Water every one or two weeks, depending on the season.)
- Perform regular evaluations during the construction process to protect the trees and ensure standards are maintained.
Tip to remember: It is always easier to prevent damage to your trees than it is to correct it.
If you follow best practices when it comes to tree protection during construction, you’ll have a greater chance of each one surviving. If you are mindful of your trees, you can prevent most damage.
If you’re considering a construction project at your home or business, let us help you assess your trees and provide guidance to the precautions you can take to ensure their continued good health. Call Mockingbird Tree today at 479-633-9876 to request a consultation with one of our certified arborists! Or, you can send us a message.
Sources:
https://extension.missouri.edu/publications/g6885
https://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/yard-garden/protecting-trees-during-construction-7-420/
