• slide
  • slide
  • slide
  • slide
  • slide
  • slide
  • slide

Dealing with Surface Roots

Be kind to your trees by creatively dealing with the surface roots.

Don't bury, nor cut, dig or shave off these important roots. Covering or damaging the roots creates entryways for insects and diseases to enter and damage or kill your tree.

Mulch is a simple solution. Use a 2 to 3 inch layer on the soil surrounding the tree. And be sure to keep the bark away from the trunk.

Shade tolerant perennials and groundcovers are another option. Carefully plant between major roots and let the plants fill in the area. New plantings will need to be watered regularly.

Add a splash of color with a few potted annuals set them among the perennial groundcovers. Or permanently sink a few pots in the ground and set potted flowers in them. It's easier on the tree roots and your back.

A bit more information: Use caution when planting under mature trees. Deep tilling can damage, not only the surface roots, but also the fine feeder roots that absorb water and nutrients. Instead dig relatively small holes, mulch and spot water new plantings. It may take a bit longer for them to fill in, but your tree will be healthier and longer lived.

Upcoming Live Events
& Webinars


Feb. 7-9, 2025
PBS Wisconsin's
Garden & Green Living Expo

Madison, WI

Feb. 12, 2025
FREE WEBINAR:
Organic Insect Pest Management for Vegetable and Flower Gardens

Register here

Feb. 14-16, 2025
NARI Milwaukee Spring Home Improvement Show
West Allis, WI

Feb. 19, 2025
FREE WEBINAR:
Strategies for Managing Invasive Plants

Register here

Feb. 26, 2025
FREE WEBINAR:
Create a Beautiful Shade Garden

Register here

Feb. 27, 2025
FREE WEBINAR:
How to Select Rain Garden Plants

Register here

March 12, 2025
FREE WEBINAR:
Grow Pollinator-friendly Spring and Summer Flowering Bulbs

Register here

March 19, 2025
FREE WEBINAR:
Be a Waterwise Gardener
Register here


March 22, 23, 29, 30, 2025
REALTORS Home & Garden Show
West Allis, WI

March 26, 2025
FREE WEBINAR:
Succession Planting & Crop Rotation

Register here

March 27, 2025
FREE WEBINAR:
Rain Garden Q & A

Register here

April 2, 2025
FREE WEBINAR:
Container Gardens for Sun & Shade
Register here


April 10, 2025
FREE WEBINAR:
Reinvigorate Your Rain Garden
Register here


May 7, 2025
FREE WEBINAR:
Vertical Gardening
Register here


May 15, 2025
FREE WEBINAR:
7 Steps to Managing Water on Your Property

Register here

June 4, 2025
FREE WEBINAR:
Attracting Hummingbirds

Register here

WATCH ON-DEMAND WEBINARS

Learn More

Book an Appearance

Learn More

Enter to Win 3 Collections of Longfield Gardens
Dahlia Bulbs

ENTER NOW