Covering up roots?

[kkern]

We have a tree in the front law that the roots are exposed. Is ok to fill in around the tree to cover the roots? Some of the roots go out about 10ft and are large. Makes mowing a real pain.

Thanks

 

[PUclimber]

mulch

Its okay to cover them with mulch but if you're thinking dirt over them that's a bad idea. If you put too much soil on top of the roots then they don't get enough oxygen through the soil.

 

[Mike Barcaskey]

the roots are popping up most likely because the soil is too compacted (not enough air space). To put top soil on the roots would be ok as long as it doesn't get too compacted from vechiles, excessive foot traffic. Mulch would be better, leaf litter and humus better yet. then you wouldn't be mowing on it.

 

[treeseer]

If you use the Search function you will find threads like this:

http://www.arboristsite.com/showthread.php?t=26524&highlight=surface+roots

 

[Tank]

Mike is right. The cause is probably a compacted soil. This is common in subdivision type development where the developer changes grade and removes topsoil then slaps a lawn in place and sticks a tree in the ground. Unfortunately all the topsoil gets removed so there is nowhere for the roots to go so they go between the lawn and "soil". You may want to consider removing the lawn around the tree and adding a thin layer of soil then some mulch. You just wouldn't want to compact the soil.