At Sargent’s, we love helping homeowners protect and preserve the trees that mean the most to them. Recently, we had the chance to work on a beautiful weeping willow that holds a special place in its owner’s landscape. Because willows are known for their delicate structure and stress-prone nature, this tree needed the royal treatment, starting from the ground up.
Why Root Enhancement Matters
Urban trees face daily challenges: compacted soils, restricted root zones, and poor access to water and nutrients. Over time, these conditions weaken roots, limit growth, and make trees more vulnerable to pests, diseases, and storm damage.
Sargent’s Root Enhancement service helps reverse this damage by creating a healthier environment for root growth and long-term tree vitality. It’s more than just a treatment; it’s an investment in the life of your trees.
How Root Enhancement Works
The process begins with a Root Collar Excavation. Using an AirSpade, our team carefully blows soil away from the base of the tree to expose the root flare. This step allows us to assess the planting depth and look for hidden problems like girdling roots (roots that circle and choke the trunk, cutting off water and nutrient flow). If found, girdling roots may be pruned, unless removal would cause more harm than good.
Next comes the Soil Enhancement Phase. Within a 3 to 10 foot radius of the trunk, turfgrass is removed, and compacted soil is loosened with the AirSpade. We then amend the area with a tailored mix of compost and/or C20 nutrient soil to improve structure, aeration, and biological activity. These amendments act like a long-term food source for the tree. Finally, mulch is applied to conserve moisture and keep grass competition away, and the area is watered thoroughly. In some cases, a drip irrigation line may be installed for consistent aftercare.
A Willow That Received the Full Package
For our willow client, Root Enhancement was the most important part of their tree care package. The soil around the base was loosened, amended with nutrient-rich C20, and finished with mulch for lasting protection.
But we didn’t stop there. This willow also received:
- Dynamic Bracing in the canopy for added stability against wind and storms.
- Cambistat Treatment, a growth regulator that redirects energy to the roots. This is essential for stressed trees.
- Borer Treatment, since pests had already started damaging the tree.
Despite having already lost a few branches, this willow is on the path to stronger health. Even better, the homeowner plans to repurpose fallen branches into a balance beam for their kids, a creative reminder that trees give back in many ways.
The Sargent’s Difference
Root Enhancement requires specialized tools, professional assessment, and careful aftercare. Whether it’s a beloved willow or a shade tree that anchors your yard, investing in root enhancement sets your trees up for long-term strength, resilience, and beauty.
The Sargent’s Difference
Root Enhancement requires specialized tools, professional assessment, and careful aftercare. Whether it’s a beloved willow or a shade tree that anchors your yard, investing in root enhancement sets your trees up for long-term strength, resilience, and beauty.
Interested in giving your trees
the royal treatment?
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