Top Tree Care Practices – August 2018: Part 2

Top Tree LLC can help you manage any tree hazards you have on your property. We are some of the best arborists in the Tri-Cities and can either give you advice on how to manage your trees or perform any preventative maintenance you need.

Root Pruning: where required and approved, shall be done mechanically with a root pruning machine, vibratory plow, or with a narrow trencher with sharp blades. Once a trench is opened up, all exposed roots will be hand pruned to provide clean-cut ends. Do not cut main lateral roots or buttress roots; cut only smaller roots that interfere with the installation of utilities. Cut roots with sharp pruning instruments; do not break or pull with a backhoe or similar equipment.

Grading Limitations within the Tree Protection Zone:
Lowering the grade around trees can have an immediate and long-term effect on trees. Typically, most roots are within the top 3 feet of soil, and most of the fine roots active in water and nutrient absorption are in the top 12 inches.

• Grade changes within the Tree Protection Zone are not permitted.
• Grade changes outside the Tree Protection Zone shall not significantly alter drainage.
• Grade changes under specifically approved circumstances shall not allow more than 6 inches of fill soil or allow more than 4 inches of existing soil to be removed from natural grade, unless mitigated.
• Grade fills over 6 inches or impervious overlay shall incorporate an approved permanent aeration system, permeable material, or other approved mitigation.
• Grade cuts exceeding 4 inches shall incorporate retaining walls or an appropriate transition equivalent.

We will continue this series over the next few months covering a wide array of topics. Don’t forget, when you’re looking for the best tree care company in Kennewick, we’d love the chance to earn your business.

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