Burien Remove girdling roots (minor)
Homeowner’s Issue
Girdling roots happen when roots circle a tree trunk or choke other roots, common in yards with compacted soil, heavy winter rain, or where trees were planted too deep. In Burien’s wet climate and clay-loam pockets, roots can hug trunks as they seek oxygen, especially on shallow soils or slopes near Seahurst Park and older White Center properties. These roots slowly weaken trees, reduce nutrient flow, and can lead to decline or instability — a concern for landlords, renters, and busy homeowners who need low-maintenance, safe landscapes.
Most homeowners want practical fixes: improve tree health, reduce risk of limb loss, and keep yards tidy for tenants or resale. With sustainable, hand-based methods (no herbicides), we focus on careful root exposure, clean pruning, and improving soil and drainage so your tree recovers with minimal disturbance. Our work aims to cut future headaches, preserve mature trees, and keep maintenance simple for rental turnovers or busy households.
Our Quality Service
We use low-impact tools and techniques suited to rainy seasons and tilted lots. Work is timed for dry spells when possible, soil is loosened by hand or air-spade, and cuts are made to protect cambium and future root development. We follow up with mulching and simple watering guidance to reduce stress.
Benefits:
- Safer trees and fewer surprises in storms.
- Better curb appeal with healthier, longer-lived trees.
- Low-maintenance results that suit landlords and busy homeowners.
What’s Included
- Assessment of root girdling and soil conditions.
- Careful exposure and selective root cuts.
- Light mulching around the root collar.
- Basic cleanup and green-waste disposal (or haul-away by request).
Optional upgrades:
- Mulch + landscape fabric around planting beds.
- Organic soil amendments for recovery.
- Organic weed control and hand-removal of ivy or moss.
- Haul-away vs. green bin disposal options.
Before & After / Expectations
After service, trees usually show gradual improvement over weeks to months. Expect:
- Mulch kept 2–3” away from trunk to prevent new girdling.
- Water deeply during dry spells; Burien summers can stress shallow roots.
- Pull invasive ivy and remove moss by hand; do not use herbicides.
- Recheck every 6–12 months for regrowth of surface roots.
FAQs
- How long does a minor job take? Typically 1–3 hours per tree depending on access and soil.
- Will the tree be harmed? When done carefully, removal of girdling roots benefits long-term health.
- Do you use herbicides? No — only sustainable, mechanical and organic methods.
- What access do you need? Clear 3–4 feet around the trunk and safe vehicle access for green-waste pickup if requested.
Call to Action
Burien homeowners and landlords: book a free estimate and we’ll assess roots, slope, and drainage to give a clear plan and timeline. Fast scheduling, dependable results, and practical local know-how for Seahurst, White Center, and surrounding neighborhoods. Email neatandtidyseattle@gmail.com to get started.
