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The conversation goes something like this…

We had an addition put on the house several years ago and now my beautiful maple tree that shades the deck so well is dying. Why is that? The answer invariably is damage during construction. Construction damage is the number one cause of premature death of urban and suburban trees in the country. Once a tree’s health is compromised, the effects are not immediately noticeable. It is only after several years that it becomes it becomes obvious the tree is in severe distress. Homeowners should learn about what kills trees, and conversely, what saves trees before allowing the contractors access to their property.

Unfortunately while most contracted laborers know a lot about the particular job they do, they are not necessarily well versed in arboriculture. Consequently, their work methods may adversely affect your tree canopy. Keep in mind that what happens below ground is often more important than what meets the eye above ground. Soil compaction, severed roots, drainage changes and changes in soil chemistry may all adversely affect the trees you still want to have around in ten years and take the necessary steps to protect them. Your property will look better and be worth more.

From the Home and School Bulletin, February, 2003