09/10/2026
🌳 Is Air Spading Right for Your Trees? 🌳
Air spading is another service we offer at Ahrens Arbor Care, and we’re proud to be the only local tree service company doing so!
So, what is air spading and why would your tree need it?
An air spade uses compressed air to carefully remove soil around the roots without damaging them. This allows us to see what is actually happening beneath the surface and identify root problems that may be contributing to a tree’s decline.
Sometimes a struggling tree is the result of something you can’t see above the ground. We’ve come across things such as plastic, landscaping fabric, metal objects, excess soil, and other foreign materials that the roots and trunk grow around causing girdling and decay in thr trunk and roots.
Another common problem we see is girdling roots caused by improper planting when roots were not pruned after being removed from their container and left circling around the root ball. As the tree grows, these roots continue to grow around the trunk and other roots, restricting the flow of water and nutrients, causing serious problems for the tree over time.
Though some of the biggest issues we see are trees being planted too deep or dirt/mulch piled to high on the trunk. A properly planted tree, as well as mature trees, should have a visible root flare at the base of the trunk. When too much soil is built up around the trunk, the root flare can become buried, which can lead to problems over time.
Air spading is a great way to carefully remove excess soil and expose the root flare without damaging the roots. When the roots are first exposed, they may look bright but will fade over time.
By air spading, we can identify and correct root problems, remove foreign objects, expose buried root flares, remove excess soil, and apply soil amendments directly where they are needed.
Most importantly, air spading can sometimes help us find the underlying reason a tree is struggling.
In some cases, a declining tree may be recommended for removal simply because the cause of the problem isn’t obvious. Before giving up on a tree, it can be worth taking a closer look at what is happening below the soil. We may be able to identify and correct the problem and give your tree another chance while potentially saving you the cost of removing and replacement
If you have a tree that is declining, has a buried root flare, or you’re concerned about what may be happening beneath the soil, give us a call and we can take a look!
📞 David Ahrens: 507-840-0601
📧 [email protected]
