Uprooted trees can cause a lot of damage, but what about the tree itself? Can an uprooted tree be saved if it was planted in a safe area?
Many factors affect a tree’s survival rate, whether you replant it as a sapling or as a mature specimen. Backridge Tree Service can often save uprooted trees with targeted tree services in Mary Esther, FL. If you’ve got a fallen tree you might like to save, you’ll find our tips below.
Factors Affecting Your Tree’s Replanting Success Rate
Can an uprooted tree be saved? Before answering this question, inspect the tree in question and consider the following factors that will affect its stress recovery:
Tree Size, Species, and Health
The basic characteristics of a tree matter a lot.
Start with the size. Is your tree shorter than 10 feet? It has a better chance of recovering because it hasn’t yet developed massive anchor systems.
Large trees have long, thick roots that are firmly anchored in the ground. Once uprooted, they’re almost impossible to put back into place because they displaced so much soil and will take a long time to reestablish.
The health and species of the tree matter, too.
Some trees can’t handle damage and die quickly, while others are more robust. Do you have a weak tree in poor health? No matter the species, it likely won’t recover.
Root Damage and Exposure Length
Were the roots severely damaged after uprooting? Losing roots is never good for the tree.
The time spent out of the ground will also affect a tree’s success rate, so you’ll want to try and replant on the same day.
Location and Season
Trees that fall over in the dormant season (winter) likely won’t recover. Trees need to be in their growing season – spring and summer – for quick root stabilization and less canopy reduction.
Did the tree fall in an open area, like a field or a large yard? It may struggle to reestablish itself. Trees with some protection from the elements often have better success rates.
Soil Health
Well-draining soil provides a better chance for your tree to recover.
Soil compaction, which prevents drainage, will make trees struggle as they try to establish their roots again.
Replanting Techniques
After assessing the tree for viability, follow these steps to replant them:
- Dig a hole deeper and wider than the root ball, ensuring there is no root compaction in or around the hole.
- Prune away roots that were damaged or broken. Use clean shears.
- Put the tree into the hole.
- Line the top of the root ball up with the soil level, ensuring the area is flat.
- Backfill the hole with soil and gently tamp it down.
- Water the tree well.
- Support the tree with stakes and a layer of mulch.
Do not replant the tree in areas that may cause home foundation damage or stunted plants.
Call Backridge Tree Service for Uprooted Tree Care
Can an uprooted tree be saved? If you’re not sure, our certified arborist can help you decide. Call us at (850) 240-2829 if you need tree advice, services, or a guide to pruning your trees.