Save this walnut!

[Erik O.]

Hello,

I want to re-grade my backyard by adding dirt. I'd like to add about 2.5 feet under the drip line of a black walnut on only one side.

If I build a tree well (out of railroad ties) near the drip line on one side of a black walnut and keep the original grade around the rest of the tree, will I kill it?

I'd estimate that 50 to 60% of the tree's root system will remain undisturbed and at it's original grade.

Thank you

 

[Erik O.]

Thank you for the reply.

The walnut is big, I'd say 70 feet high. I don't think water would pool around the tree because it is on a slope. I could also have the dirt graded so that run off water flows away.

I'll try to post a picture, if that would help.

Thanks again

 

[Newt*]

Eric, this site shows sensitivity of root disturbance and soil compaction for several trees. It lists your burr oak and the walnut.
http://www.extension.umn.edu/distribution/housingandclothing/DK6135.html

Be sure to do some research on how to build a proper tree well.

Newt

 

[treeseer]

so walnuts in both CA and MN are reported highly sensitive.

Consider aeration tubes in the fill, and making the fill porous soil.

Also good idea for a pro on site to assess its condition, and invigorate it.