Root Collar Excavation
Root collar excavation restores a healthy root flare. In fact, nearly 90% of urban trees in Quebec have a buried root collar. This common issue can lead to serious problems, including restricted sap flow and compromised structural stability.
Excavation must be performed carefully to avoid damaging the roots and the root flare itself. The process also allows us to detect and remove girdling roots that may be strangling the trunk.
Improved Sap Flow
A tree with a buried root collar typically faces two major issues: girdling roots and decay. Girdling roots wrap around the trunk and slowly choke the tree. Removing these roots restores proper sap circulation.
Decay also interferes with sap flow. When rot reaches the cambium—the layer where sap circulates—the tree’s internal transport system becomes compromised. Root collar excavation exposes the flare to air, allowing it to breathe and dry out, which helps stop the conditions that lead to rot.
Once sap circulation returns to normal, the overall health of the tree often improves quickly. Visible changes in canopy density and leaf vitality can sometimes be observed in less than two months.
Stronger Structural Stability
A buried root collar encourages decay, attracting insects and promoting the growth of pathogenic fungi. If left untreated, the structural integrity of the tree becomes compromised. Trees affected at the root flare are more vulnerable to failure during strong winds.
Excavation reduces excess moisture and helps eliminate fungal and insect activity. Over time, the tree can regain strength and improve its structural stability.
