Strengthening our Community Tree Canopy Through Education Module

Strengthening Our Community Tree Canopy 2012 Urban Forestry Series This series is a part

Root Barriers – the Need � Installed vertically � Prevent root penetration, redirect growth

Root Barriers – the Need � Tree relocation � Deflecting roots near sidewalks �

Root Barriers - Types Chemical � Physical � � Two dimensional � Three dimensional

Root Barriers: Configuration Linear – Along Narrow Trench Photo: Root Barriers Brisbane Circular –

Root Barriers - Design � Vertical ribs – deflect roots downward � Locking wings

Root Barriers - Homemade � Coarse gravel � Tubing � Screen � Fabric Image:

Root Barriers – Testing Treatments � � � Biobarrier – most effective at deflecting

Root Barriers - Installation � Recommended be done by a qualified tree professional �

Slides: 12

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Strengthening our Community Tree Canopy Through Education Module #9: Root Barrier Selection & Installation Laura Sanagorski, Environmental Horticulture Extension Faculty

Strengthening Our Community Tree Canopy 2012 Urban Forestry Series This series is a part of a project titled “Strengthening Our Community Tree Canopy Through Education”. This project is made possible by a grant through the 2011 National Urban and Community Forestry Grant Program and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, and the Florida Forest Service.

Root Barrier Selection / Installation

Root Barriers – the Need � Installed vertically � Prevent root penetration, redirect growth � Protection of new and existing utilities Photo: UF Laura Sanagorski

Root Barriers – the Need � Tree relocation � Deflecting roots near sidewalks � Large trees planted near foundations Photo: UF Laura Sanagorski

Root Barriers - Types Chemical � Physical � � Two dimensional � Three dimensional Inhibitors – fabric embedded with herbicide (often trifluralin) � Traps – (woven nylon / copper screen) allow penetration but not enlargement � Deflectors – physical barrier: redirect growth � Coarse gravel �

Root Barriers: Configuration Linear – Along Narrow Trench Photo: Root Barriers Brisbane Circular – Around ball of Newly Planted Tree Photo: NDS

Root Barriers - Design � Vertical ribs – deflect roots downward � Locking wings or tabs � Newer barriers have more rugged tops Photo: NDS

Root Barriers - Homemade � Coarse gravel � Tubing � Screen � Fabric Image: Justin Morganroth

Root Barriers – Testing Treatments � � � Biobarrier – most effective at deflecting roots deeper Deep. Root – not effective in reducing root growth in top 4” of well-drained or poorly -drained soil Polyethylene Plastic - not effective in reducing root growth in top 4” of welldrained or poorly-drained soil Clean gravel- only one effective No effect on root diameter Photo: Biobarrier Adapted from Gilman, 2006.

Root Barriers - Installation � Recommended be done by a qualified tree professional � Gilman (2006) recommends installation at deeper than 12” to

Strengthening our Community Tree Canopy Through Education Module #9: Root Barrier Selection & Installation Laura Sanagorski, Environmental Horticulture Extension Faculty