Girdling roots result when roots coil around the base of a tree trunk and restrict the flow of sap in the tree. This is a semi-dwarf pine 8 to 10 inches in diameter at the base, about 10 feet tall and about 10 to 11 years old. As the tree trunk and roots grow occupying the same space, the roots constrict the enlargement of the trunk and begin girdling the vascular tissue of the trunk (directly below the outer bark). The good news is that they are totally preventable. These roots will continue to grow like this even when removed from the container. Stem-girdling roots and dysfunctional root systems are 2 very big problems with trees, especially in urban landscapes. When a tree is planted at the wrong depth the root flare is below ground level. Trees growing in natural forest settings do not develop girdling roots. The root flare separates the roots, which have evolved to be underground in a moist environment, from the stem and leaves, which have evolved to be above ground in a much drier environment. Home > Root growth > Root collar exam and treatments > Remove circling roots. These stem girdling roots encircle nearly the entire trunk circumference. Girdling Roots The Cause, Assessment, Symptoms and Treatment of Stem Girdling Roots Girdling roots are a common problem of trees in urban landscapes. If left unchecked, the roots would stop the tree from getting moisture and nutrients which will eventually cause the tree to die. This photo shows an example of stem girdling roots. The root flare separates the roots, which have evolved to be underground in a moist environment from the stem and leaves which have evolved to be above ground in a much drier environment. Stems that are below ground are confused and may send out roots as a response to this stress. The root hits a plastic wall, turns, then continues to grow in a circle. Trees with roots that are touching or circling the trunk (right photo) instead of growing straight away from the trunk (left photo) stress the tree by reducing or eliminating vascular flow where the root contacts the trunk. (SGR’s) Cause: Urban landscapes are filled with trees that are planted to deep. Photographs are included below to illustrate our findings. As the girdling root and the trunk of the tree grow in diameter, the girdling root slowly chokes off the flow of water and nutrients to the tree. Remove circling roots. The main problem that occurs is the formation of girdling roots. Trees just simply need to be planted correctly! Stem Girdling Roots. The Cause, Assessment, Symptoms, and Treatment of Stem Girdling Roots. A. Girdling roots are those that wind up growing around the trunk of a tree rather than out into the surrounding soil. 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