How Do I Get Rid of Exposed Tree Roots?

February 29, 2024

How to Address Exposed Tree Roots in Your Yard

Exposure of tree roots in your yard can be both unsightly and hazardous. Not only can they detract from the appearance of your landscape, but they can also pose a tripping hazard. Additionally, exposed tree roots can indicate potential issues with the tree's health or the surrounding soil. In this guide, we'll explore several methods for addressing exposed tree roots in your yard, helping you restore the beauty and safety of your outdoor space.


1. Cover with Mulch

One of the simplest ways to address exposed tree roots is to cover them with a layer of mulch. Mulch not only improves the appearance of your yard but also helps retain moisture in the soil and regulate soil temperature. Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the tree, taking care not to pile it up against the trunk.


2. Create a Rock Garden

Another option is to create a rock garden around the base of the tree. Rocks can help protect the roots from further exposure while adding a decorative element to your landscape. Choose rocks of varying sizes and arrange them around the base of the tree, leaving space for the tree to grow.


3. Install a Retaining Wall

If the exposed tree roots are on a slope, consider installing a retaining wall to hold back the soil and prevent further erosion. A retaining wall can also create a visually appealing terraced effect in your yard. Ensure that the retaining wall is installed correctly to avoid damaging the tree roots.


4. Build a Raised Bed

Constructing a raised bed around the base of the tree can help cover exposed roots and create a defined planting area. Fill the raised bed with soil and plant flowers or ground cover to further enhance the appearance of your yard.


5. Consult with a Professional

If the exposed tree roots are extensive or if you're unsure how to address them, consider consulting with a professional arborist. An arborist can assess the health of the tree and recommend the best course of action for addressing the exposed roots.



Exposed tree roots can detract from the beauty and safety of your yard, but there are several methods for addressing this issue. Whether you choose to cover the roots with mulch, create a rock garden, install a retaining wall, or build a raised bed, taking action to address exposed tree roots can improve the appearance and safety of your outdoor space. If you're unsure how to proceed, consulting with a professional arborist such as AX Simsbury Tree Service Guys that can help ensure that the roots are addressed in a way that benefits both your tree and your landscape.


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April 16, 2025
Common Tree Issues in Simsbury, CT and How to Handle Them Simsbury’s beautiful landscape is part of what makes the town so special—but maintaining it? That’s another story. From heavy snow to late-summer droughts, the trees here face their share of challenges. And as a homeowner or property manager, those challenges often land squarely in your lap. Let’s dig into the most common tree issues in Simsbury and what you can actually do about them. No fluff. Just practical, effective strategies that work. 1. Dead or Dying Trees This one's hard to miss. If a tree has brittle branches, peeling bark, or no leaves in the growing season, it's likely on its way out—or already dead. Why it matters: Dead trees are dangerous. They can fall without warning, damaging your property or injuring someone nearby. How to handle it: Don’t wait. Call a certified arborist for a tree evaluation. In many cases, full tree removal is the safest option. If the tree is in a tricky spot—like near a home or power lines—make sure the company you hire is licensed, insured, and equipped for precision work. 2. Storm Damage Simsbury gets its fair share of wild weather. Strong winds, heavy snow, and sometimes ice storms can break branches or uproot trees completely. Signs to watch for: Hanging or cracked limbs Uprooted root systems Branches tangled in wires What to do: Don’t try to handle this solo, especially if wires are involved. Secure the area to prevent injury, then contact a local emergency tree service . In some cases, strategic trimming can save a partially damaged tree. Pro tip: Have your trees evaluated yearly—before storm season hits. 3. Insect Infestations Emerald Ash Borer. Gypsy moths. Scale insects. These tiny pests can do a ton of damage if left unchecked. Symptoms: Holes in bark Sudden leaf loss Sticky sap or a black, sooty mold on leaves How to handle it: Early detection is key. A certified arborist can diagnose the issue and recommend treatments—from trunk injections to selective pruning. If an infestation is advanced, tree removal might be the only safe option to prevent it from spreading. 4. Root Problems Not all tree issues are above ground. Sometimes, the biggest threats are beneath your feet. Watch for: Raised soil or cracked pavement Trees leaning without wind Poor drainage around roots The fix: Tree roots can disrupt foundations, sidewalks, and sewer lines. Don’t dig around blindly. Use air spading or consult with a tree service that offers root zone analysis. In some cases, root pruning can solve the issue. In others, removing the tree is the only way to prevent serious damage. 5. Overgrowth and Lack of Maintenance This is one of the most common—and most fixable—issues we see in Simsbury. Trees that haven’t been pruned in years grow wild, which creates hazards and invites disease. What happens: Branches rub together, causing wounds Canopies block air and sunlight, weakening the tree Overhanging limbs create liability concerns What to do: Schedule regular tree trimming, ideally every 2–3 years. A professional will thin the canopy, remove risky branches, and shape the tree for optimal health and appearance. Think of it like a tune-up for your landscape. Final Thoughts: Prevention is Cheaper than Repairs Here’s the truth: Most tree disasters are preventable. Regular inspections, proper pruning, and early intervention can save you thousands in emergency costs—not to mention the stress. If you’re unsure about a tree on your property, don’t wait for a branch to fall or a storm to strike. Reach out. Let’s take a proactive approach together. Because when it comes to trees, the sooner you act, the safer your home and the healthier your landscape.
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