Root Surgery
Without Damage.
In Tampa's sandy soils, tree roots often surface or circle the trunk, strangling the tree. We use Air Spade technology to safely expose and correct these issues before they kill your Oak.
Girdling Roots
Many trees in New Tampa and Brandon were planted too deep in their containers. As they grow, roots wrap around the trunk like a tourniquet, cutting off circulation. This is the #1 cause of slow decline in young Live Oaks.
Our Air Spade Solution:
- Safety First: Unlike shovels, the air stream does not cut or bruise the roots. It simply blows the soil away.
- Inspection: We expose the root flare (the base of the tree) to inspect for girdling roots and rot.
- Correction: We surgically prune the strangling roots and replace the soil with a nutrient-rich, porous blend.
We Fix "Volcano Mulching" Damage.
Root Zone Management
Advanced care for the foundation of your trees.
Root Collar Excavation
Removing excess soil and mulch from the base of the tree to expose the flare. Essential for preventing trunk rot in Florida's humidity.
Sidewalk Protection
We install physical root barriers to deflect roots downward, preventing them from lifting driveways and pavers.
Construction Mapping
Planning a pool or addition? We dig exploratory trenches to locate major roots before the excavator rips them up.
Service Area
We bring our specialized air compressors to sites throughout Hillsborough County.
Root Work Costs
Pricing reflects the specialized equipment and technical expertise required.
| Service | Scope | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Root Collar Excavation | Single Tree Base | $250 - $500 |
| Air Spading (Day Rate) | Decompaction / Trenching | $1,500 - $2,200 |
| Root Barrier Install | Per Linear Foot | $50 - $100 |
| Backfill | Compost / Biochar | Included |
Root FAQ
Does the Air Spade hurt the tree?
No. That is why we use it. The air stream moves soil but flows harmlessly over solid objects like roots, pipes, and cables. It is far safer than mechanical digging.
Why are roots coming up in my lawn?
Surface roots usually happen because the soil deeper down is compacted or lacks oxygen. The roots come to the surface to breathe. Adding mulch (not grass) over these roots helps keep them moist and protected.
Can I just cut the root lifting my sidewalk?
Be careful. Cutting a large structural root can destabilize the tree, making it a hazard during hurricane season. We can assess if the root can be safely pruned or if the sidewalk needs to be bridged over it.