DAMAGE/SYMPTOMS There are several signs that a tree might have been planted too deep. The most obvious sign is the lack of trunk flare, which is where the tree widens near the soil surface. Trees planted incorrectly tend to lack vigor and have a shortened life expectancy. They exhibit premature leaf drop, wilting, scorch, chlorosis, and stunted growth. When the trunk is excavated, adventitious and girdling roots are often found.

OCCURRENCE Recently planted trees are extremely susceptible to damage due to deep planting. Balled and burlapped trees can also be planted too deep due to where the soil is deposited on the trunk during the packaging process. Landscape construction in the vicinity of trees and grade changes in a landscape can also lead to trees being lodged too deep.

SUSCEPTIBILITY/TOLERANCE Any tree is susceptible to damage from deep planting. Improper planting is a major reason for premature tree death. Most tree roots grow in the top six inches of soil where water, nutrients, and air are readily available. When excess soil is deposited on top of the existing soil it limits the tree’s ability to access these resources.

MANAGEMENT Recently planted trees can be lifted and replanted correctly. A root collar excavation can be done on established trees. Excess soil and mulch can be removed from the circumference of the trunk to the point where the trunk flares out into root growth.

 

A Adventitous roots growing from trunk where it had been buried too deep. B Trunks that show no flare where they enter the soil are planted too deep. C A hackberry planted too deep displays chlorosis and canopy dieback.

 

A photo of thin roots coming out of trunk where mulch has been pulled away.    

A tree trunk that is planted in so deep that it does not widen before entering the soil.

A small tree with yellow leaves and dead limbs in the canopy planted in lawn area.