Even though many benefits come with planting trees in your garden or on nature strips, there are also a few disadvantages that need to be taken into consideration.
One such disadvantage is invasive root growth. This is when a tree’s roots will naturally spread out and venture in between water pipes, underneath footpaths and other areas where you don’t want them to go.
An effective way to prevent invasive root growth is to install a root barrier during the planting process. But how exactly do you install it? Here’s how.
Planting a tree requires you to dig a hole twice the size of the root ball.
Once you have placed the tree in the middle, the root barrier is placed around the edge of the hole. Measure the circumference and cut it so it overlaps.
After that, install the root barrier, making sure that the top levels with the ground’s surface. Use backfill to keep it in place. Overlap the root barrier to complete the circle, providing maximum protection.
Root barrier can be joined together using butyl tape. It will stop the tree roots from spreading outwards and direct them to grow downwards into the ground.
Before installation, you’ll need to measure out the surrounding area to determine where the root barrier will be most effective.
To protect a footpath, the root barrier should be installed adjacent. Therefore, measure the distance of the footpath you want to protect.
Once the area has been measured out, you’ll need to prepare to install the root barrier by digging a trench with a depth of roughly 80 centimetres deep and 10 centimetres wide, so that the barrier can be fitted with some room to spare. This trench will need to be dug parallel to the footpath to prevent all the surrounding roots from growing directly underneath it. Root barrier is 77cm or 86cm deep.
Once you’ve completed the steps needed to properly install a root barrier, you can now prevent the roots of young trees from spreading to areas that you don’t want them to go.
If you’re looking for rolls of high-quality root barrier or any other erosion control products, talk to the team at All Stake Supply. Our team has years of experience in providing Sydney with a range of environmental supplies. We’ll work with you to make sure you get products that are ideal for your project.
If you’d like to enquire about our range or would like to learn more about how we can help you, give us a call on 1300 130 123 today.
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