Dear Master Gardener: We moved into a house and noticed the roots of several trees are girdled. Why did this happen? Answer: Girdling roots are roots that grow in a circular or spiral pattern around ...

We don’t often think about the roots of trees until there is a problem. A forester friend of mine called it a “fencepost mentality.” Being underground, they are often out of sight out of mind. However ...

Tree roots growing at or slightly above the soil surface are called surface roots. Homeowners having trees with these surface roots are frustrated with the additional challenges posed by mowing and ...

Trees lost many surface roots in drought but grew more deep roots that reached wetter soil. Fungal partners helped roots take up water.

I’ve had some recent interactions with people frustrated by tree roots that surface, causing mowing difficulties and potential ankle-twisting opportunities. What can be done with surface roots?

Large trees often develop surface roots that can damage sidewalks, mower blades, and tree health. Mulch 2–3 inches deep to cover roots safely and reduce maintenance without harming the tree. Never cut ...

Mmmm, the smell of cookies is everywhere this time of year. Just imagine that lovely scent—so woodsy, so piney. We’d take a bite if not for the risk of splinters and breaking our teeth. Research ...

Lee Wallender is a home improvement writer of nearly 20 years and specializes in home remodeling, repair and maintenance. Sami Allen is the managing editor at Forbes Home, with over seven years of ...

Many San Antonio neighborhoods are blessed with large live oak trees, some of which have had their flare roots buried in years past to better meet the landscape owner’s idea of a more attractive ...

Most people buy their fruit trees the same way they buy all of their other plants: in pots. But savvy gardeners know better. Fruit trees are cheaper and grow best when planted “bare root” — in other ...