Checking out the damage after a storm is always a tense experience. You’ll likely find injured trees with fallen limbs, at the very least. Sometimes, a specimen is partially uprooted or even completely fallen. 

Can a partially uprooted tree be saved? As your trusted provider of tree services in Merrifield, VA, Dos Amigos Tree Experts explores the likelihood of your distressed specimen surviving below. 

What Causes Trees To Uproot?

Windy storms are among the most common and obvious reasons for uprooted trees, but they are not the only cause. You might notice dwindling tree stability if:

• Water drains downhill toward the tree during heavy rainfall
• The tree grows from a slope with significant erosion
• The blunt force from a vehicle or other heavy machinery shoves the tree in one direction
• Soil compaction limits the roots from accessing resources, weakening them in the process

Each of these forces can gradually or suddenly expose and weaken the root system. 

Can a Partially Uprooted Tree Be Saved?

Insecure root systems often damage and destabilize the entire tree. If the specimen survives this issue, then the tree recovery time can take months to years. This leaves the tree vulnerable to all kinds of opportunistic diseases if you don’t take proper precautions.

So, can a partially uprooted tree be saved? Sometimes, it can be under the following circumstances. 

What’s the Extent of the Damage?

First, you need to know the extent of the root damage. Some partially uprooted trees still have their roots intact. An arborist can carefully rescue the uplifting roots and prepare the soil to help them anchor and grow. 

Trunk and branch damage are other factors. Particularly nasty wounds in the trunk will limit the specimen’s chances for survival long term since it must regrow its roots and heal its wounds. 

How Mature Is the Tree?

Can a partially uprooted tree be saved? That depends on its age. Older, more mature trees have deeply established roots that will incur more damage from uprooting forces. 

It’s also harder to construct and install tree support systems like cabling and bracing for older, heavier specimens. Meanwhile, you can often simply dig up and replant younger trees because they are lighter, less established, and ready to adapt.

Is Replanting a Possibility?

You usually can’t replant a fully matured tree since the secure part of its root system is likely too vast and secure to dig up. As mentioned, younger trees are more adaptable and better equipped to consistently establish their root systems. They may respond favorably to professional replanting techniques and additional, consistent care. 

How To Increase the Chances of Survival

Let’s say your partially uprooted tree could survive this traumatic disruption. What can you do to protect its health and help it survive?

1. Move quickly: Time is of the essence when dealing with uprooting. The sooner you assess and handle the issue, the higher the likelihood of survival. 
2. Eliminate above-ground damage: If the tree has dead or injured limbs, carefully prune them for a neat, clean-cut wound. 
3. Prepare the soil: A salvageable tree will need plenty of fertilizer and moisture to reroot. 
4. Add tree supports: The tree may need cabling, bracing, or stakes for additional support and stability. 
5. Consistently monitor: Regularly check up on your healing specimen. Water it according to your arborist’s recommendations to encourage root establishment.  

Reach Out to Dos Amigos Tree Experts for Help in Merrifield, Virginia

Can a partially uprooted tree be saved? Ask Dos Amigos Tree Experts for replanting and fertilization guidance in Merrifield, Virginia. If the worst happens, our team can handle removing tree roots from your yard after a complete tree and stump removal service. Call 703-300-6103 to request a quote.