Healthy Trees Start Below the Surface: Why Soil and Roots Matter
Why Soil Health Is Critical for Trees
At Jay’s Tree Care & Firewood, we believe great tree care doesn’t start in the branches—it starts underground. The health of your trees depends on strong roots and nutrient-rich soil. As trusted ISA Certified Arborists serving Minnetonka and the West Metro area, we’re here to help homeowners understand how caring for the foundation of a tree leads to long-term vitality.
Just like a home needs a solid foundation, your trees need healthy soil. Good soil allows roots to access water, oxygen, and essential nutrients. Unfortunately, many urban and suburban landscapes—including neighborhoods across the West Metro—have compacted or low-quality soil due to construction, lawn treatments, or poor drainage.
Common soil issues we see in Minnetonka:
- Soil compaction from heavy equipment or foot traffic
- Excessive mulch or "volcano mulching"
- High clay content limiting drainage
- Salt buildup from winter de-icing
These issues can lead to weak root systems, making your trees more vulnerable to drought, disease, and storm damage.
How to Promote Root Health and Tree Longevity
At Jay’s Tree Care, we take a proactive approach to building healthy root systems. Our certified arborists offer professional evaluations and customized solutions such as:
- Air spading to alleviate compaction without damaging roots
- Root zone mulching using proper techniques to retain moisture and protect against temperature swings
- Soil amendments to improve structure and nutrient availability
- Watering guidance based on tree species, age, and soil condition
Proper root care encourages deeper root growth, greater stability, and better resilience against pests and diseases.
The Role of Mulch—Done Right
Mulch is one of the easiest and most effective tools for tree health—when applied properly. We often see the dreaded “mulch volcano,” where piles of mulch are mounded around the trunk, leading to moisture buildup and decay.
Instead, apply mulch in a donut shape, 2–4 inches deep, and keep it several inches away from the trunk. This helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature without suffocating the tree.
Need mulch? Jay’s Tree Care offers local mulch delivery throughout the West Metro.
When to Call a Certified Arborist
If your tree has yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or signs of stress, the issue could be below the surface. Our ISA Certified team can diagnose root issues, test your soil, and recommend the best plan to support long-term tree health.
We’re proud to serve Minnetonka and nearby communities with expert tree care backed by decades of experience. Whether you need a full soil consultation, seasonal trimming, or mulch delivery, our team is here to help your trees thrive.
