Not only can exposed tree roots cut into the aesthetic of your landscape, but they can also be a nightmare for lawnmower blades and hardscapes. Since cutting or pruning these roots can injure or kill the tree, it can be frustrating to find a solution that works best for your property. Fortunately, you have a few options at your disposal. Let’s take a look at some of the ways you can fix exposed tree roots.

The Wrong Ways to Fix Exposed Tree Roots

Before we discuss your options for hiding exposed tree roots, let’s review some of the common mistakes homeowners make. Here are a few examples of steps you shouldn’t take to conceal tree roots:

• Don’t Remove Roots: By removing the exposed roots, you could be depriving the tree of the nutrients it needs to stay alive and may cause it to fall over during strong winds.
• Don’t Add More Soil: Exposed roots may be a byproduct of erosion, but adding more soil will only offer temporary relief. It can even cause damage to the root by suffocating it.
• Don’t Seed New Grass: You may think growing grass over the added soil will prevent erosion, but a lack of sunlight from the foliage can cause the grass to die and the roots to reappear.

Fortunately, there are other options you can pursue to fix your property’s exposed tree roots.

Add a Layer of Mulch

The easiest and cheapest method of covering tree roots is removing any grass at the base of the tree and replacing it with a thick layer of mulch. This insulates the exposed root and cushions it to prevent tree damage. It also discourages foot traffic and eliminates the need for mowing in that area, protecting your mower’s blades. However, avoid the color-stained variety of mulch, as the dyes can be harmful to trees.

Add Ground Cover

You can also conceal the root by surrounding the area with ground cover that doesn’t require mowing. Taller, native ground cover – like bunchberry dogwood or running cedar – will grow quickly in New England’s habitat and will deter foot traffic. However, before planting ground cover, you should ensure the type you choose doesn’t harm the tree’s roots, such as vining ground cover.

Taking the time to fix exposed tree roots can contribute to your landscape’s aesthetic. However, you must go about it the right way, or you could inadvertently be creating an unsafe situation. At Dolan Landscaping, we know the safest and most effective way to maintain your landscape and can help round out your property with eye-catching greenery. If you need the help of an expert landscaper for your property, contact us today.