A tree with girdling roots tends to decline over a 5-to-10-year period. Red and sugar maples , along with American beech , pines , oaks , poplars, and elms are most likely to develop girding roots.

“Throughout the tree’s life, make it a priority to protect the bark from girdling.” For tree and plant advice, contact the Arboretum’s Plant Clinic (630-719-2424 or plantclinic@mortonarb ...

It's a common mistake, with many other homeowners facing similar issues. Arborist issues urgent warning after spotting dangerous yard mistake: 'Will kill the tree over time' first appeared on The Cool ...

Girdling roots encircle the tree trunk and as both the roots and trunk grow over time, they begin to press into each other. That can inhibit the flow of water and nutrients up and down the tree.

Cutting Girdling Roots to Make Trees Thrive Again. Posted: March 31, 2025 | Last updated: March 31, 2025. Ever wondered how cutting a girdling root can help a tree?

The symptoms of decline caused by stem girdling roots often don't show up until 10 or 15 years after trees are planted. During planting, if roots are left in a circle as they come out of the pot ...

But it can also cause decay through excess moisture to the root flare, damage from pests like mice and insects that can live in mulch, expose the tree to pathogens, and promote unnecessary root growth ...

image: Summary of the transcriptome-based molecular mechanisms for the shift in nutrient acquisition from roots to mycorrhizas following the girdling of Pinus taeda trees.. view more . Credit ...

STAUNTON — As the sun hit the courthouse steps Thursday afternoon, crew members with Williams Brothers Tree and Lawn Service finished removing the stumps of two Zelkova trees.. The Zelkova trees, ...