Root Enhancement System ©

for Urban Trees

The majority of a tree’s biomass is underground in its root system. Since trees cannot move they must survive by adapting to the soil conditions in which they are placed. Urban situations stress a tree’s ability to maintain and regenerate root health, which is reflected in its above ground appearance. Rainbow Treecare has developed a Root Enhancement System© (RES) that promotes fibrous root growth for greater capacity to acquire water and nutrients from urban soils, resulting in increased tree health and vigor.

Why use the Root Enhancement System?

Site Limitations	Soil Conditions	Nutritional Needs
Trees planted in urban areas are faced with many challenges that affect their ability to grow and remain healthy. Lawns, building foundations, driveways, streets, sidewalks, landscaped areas, and other obstacles limit the expansion of roots and reduce a tree’s ability to intake water and nutrients.	Urban soils become compacted from construction and other human activities. This soil is difficult for tree roots to penetrate and has less oxygen and water which are critical to tree health. Trees living in compacted soils are smaller, experience more health problems, and die at a much younger age if compaction is not treated.	Most urban yards have trees planted in restrictive root zones. In addition, the removal of top soil during construction creates a lack of organic microbial activity critical to the release of essential nutrients necessary for tree health.
Where are the roots?	Compacted urban soil	New sterile landscape

ROOT ENHANCEMENT SYSTEM©
Structural roots around the base of the tree are exposed using meticulous care not to disrupt the fine root system. Root health and structure are evaluated and treated as necessary. Girdling roots may be removed and redirection barriers placed adjacent to the cut to prevent new roots from continuing the circling pattern.	Roots within a 3-7 foot radius of the trunk are exposed using a high volume air spade Exposed roots are treated with organic matter that has been specifically formulated to promote root growth. Each formula is created specifically for individual trees based upon species, age and existing soil conditions.	Mulch is placed over the root enhancement zone and saturated with water. Water the root zone thoroughly for two weeks to maintain a moist soil environment. This activates soil microorganisms that initiate the root enhancement process. As conditions change, care needs to be adjusted to fit the requirements of the tree. An annual examination of the fine roots and soil quality is recommended.

An integrated approach

When caring for urban trees it is important to make a complete evaluation of all environmental conditions
to accurately diagnose all stress factors and prescribe care based on specific circumstances. This
prescriptive care will help your tree meet its full potential.

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