Balsam Tree & Shrub Care
Stem Girdling Roots
Critical Root Radius > 40%
This is the maximum amount of girdling that can be allowed before treatment is no longer a viable option, and removal is recommended.
Common Causes
- Planting too deep.
- Containerized trees.
- Improperly planting with encircling or girdling roots.
How do I tell if my trees have SGR?
- Stem Girdling Roots have physical symptoms like those seen to the right.
- Bloating at the base of the trunk as a result of compressed cells and reduced transport.
Potential issues if not resolved
- SGRs reduce water transport, which causes stress and dehydration.
- This can promote instability and decline.
- Higher frequency of frost cracking results from this stress.
- SGRs promote decline in trees, but not necessarily immediate death.
- Declining trees attract pests and pathogens, which can lead to further infection of your landscape.