Menu

Call This Saturday to Get $25 OFF

banner

Signs of Tree Root Damage

The tree root is the anchor that keeps the tree in place but thats not all a healthy…

Nov 24,2018

Signs of Tree Root Damage

The tree root is the anchor that keeps the tree in place but thats not all a healthy root is good for. Roots are the lifeline of the tree, taking up air, water, and nutrients from the soil to transport up to the leaves where they interact with the sun to produce energy for the tree. Studies have shown that these roots even communicate with microorganisms in the soil to protect the tree from disease. So, taking care of the roots is as important as caring for the rest of the tree. In this article brought to you by Sesmas Tree Service, we will review some signs of tree root damage so that you can address the problem as soon as possible.

image

The ISA-certified arborists at Sesmas Tree Service are always ready, willing, and able to help. If you have any questions or concerns, then call Sesmas Tree Service to get in touch with a courteous professional.

Our Services

image Your Trusted Local Arborists

Land Clearing Services

Not every tree removal business can handle large-scale site clearing and site preparation projects like Sesmas Tree Service can. We…

Learn More
image Your Trusted Local Arborists

Retention Pond & Stormwater Maintenance

Property management companies and HOA’s in Georgia are required to maintain their retention ponds to make sure their stormwaters on their properties…

Learn More
image Your Trusted Local Arborists
image Your Trusted Local Arborists

Commercial Office/Industrial

At Sesmas Tree Service, we understand that the main priorities at your commercial office and industrial sites are to keep…

Learn More

Wilting

Damaged roots mean less absorption of water from the soil and trees will start to wilt when they are not getting the moisture they need. Granted, wilting also occurs if the tree is underwatered or overwatered. So, check the moisture levels in the soil before panicking about root damage.

Thinning Foliage

As we stated earlier, the nutrients, water, and oxygen that the roots absorb is transported to the leaves. If the roots are damaged, then these nutrients, water, and oxygen will not reach the foliage. The result is thinning foliage, yellow undersized leaves, wilted brown leaves, and dead branches in the upper canopy.

Customer Reviews

Noel and his team at Sesmas Tree Service are extremely professional, do quality work, and are available when you need them. I have been using them for the past year and have never been disappointed with any service they have provided. Noel is the first person I call when I need any tree work done!

Matthew Keheley

I absolutely love the work ethic displayed by Sesmas employees. They work hard and fast! My property looks amazing! This is the second time in 5 years that I have used their services and customer satisfaction is still at the top of their list.

Evita Fikes

Sesmas did a terrific job for us on a project completed today involving the removal of 18 problem trees. Project was completed exactly as promised, skillfully and for a reasonable price. Mike Fowler was excellent in overseeing the work and his crew was outstanding. Highly recommend!

Kathryn Arvidson

These guys were on point. Verified the request before beginning (always good, because the trees aren't coming back!). Then made sure the trimming was done to exactly where I wanted it. On time, fast, and completely cleaned up after - was a great experience. Highly recommend!

Josh Pitchford

Leaning Tree

The tree root serves as an anchor that keeps the tree in place. When the roots begin to wither or weaken, then you may notice the tree start to lean in a certain direction. This is extremely dangerous and should be addressed as soon as possible to avoid damage to property and injury to passersby.

Causes of Root Damage

Tree roots can be damaged by a variety of factors, but some common culprits include:

  • Animals, especially insects, feeding on the roots.
  • Soil compression due to foot traffic and heavy machinery going over the area.
  • Digging in the area around a tree. A significant portion of the tree roots are in the upper twelve inches to eighteen inches of the soil.
  • Mowers, edgers, and weed whackers can damage tree roots and expose them to fungal and bacterial infections. Be careful when landscaping around tree roots.

What to Do

Significant root damage will lead to the death of the tree, but there are some measures you can take to protect the tree with root damage:

  • Apply mulch around the tree.
  • Radial trenching to add nutritious topsoil.
  • Fertilizer can support the development of new roots.
  • Pruning the roots at specific locations can stimulate growth.
  • Support leaning trees with cables, braces, or props.

Call Sesmas Tree Service

If you would like to consult with an ISA-certified arborist, then feel free to call Sesmas Tree Service. We are always ready and happy to help.

 

Blogs & Latest News

Stay updated with the latest tips, trends, and insights from Sesmas. Explore expert advice on tree care, safety, and maintenance to keep your landscape healthy and beautiful year-round.

View All
Dec 23,2025

When a Tree Stops Being an Asset and Becomes a Risk

Trees are magnificent entities that add beauty and functionality to your home. However, they can pose serious risks if left unattended.…

Read More
Dec 17,2025

Why Trees Are the Unsung Heroes of Your Neighborhood

Trees are magnificent entities that improve our landscapes and the environment. Whether it’s their profound beauty during spring or the shield…

Read More
Dec 09,2025

Why Tree Care Is Essential for Home Value and Curb Appeal

Taking care of trees on your property regularly is one of the smartest investments you can make to protect long-term value…

Read More
Dec 04,2025

The Step-by-Step Process of Professional Stump Grinding

After cutting down a potentially hazardous tree on your property, the job is not complete until you get rid of the…

Read More