Trenchless digging and happy trees!
We’ll be honest, we thought Air Spading was just the gardening version of air guitar…. Turns out we were wrong!
Air Spade technology is actually a game-changer when it comes to preserving tree health and care, especially in areas where work is needed around tree roots.
Unlike conventional excavation tools like shovels, crowbars, or excavators, which can cause significant damage or compact the soil, Air Spading safely loosens and removes soil without harming the roots.
Maintaining the health of trees is critical, not only for the beauty of landscapes but also for environmental sustainability.
Trees provide oxygen, reduce carbon dioxide, improve air quality, create habitats for wildlife and look amazing.
But trees can be sensitive, especially if you’ve been building or renovating!
This is why using proper techniques like Air Spading is essential for keeping trees thriving.
We spoke to local expert Michael from Turf 2 Trees Horticulture to get the lowdown on what Air Spading actually is and how Highlands gardeners can use it to keep their trees looking and feeling schmick.
Take it away, Michael:
Photo is of Air Spading expert Brodie, Advanced Grounds Management
What Is An Air Spade?
An Air Spade is a high-powered tool that uses compressed air to remove soil without harming the underlying roots, utilities, or other structures. By directing a focused jet of air into the ground, it loosens the soil while keeping delicate roots and underground infrastructure intact. Unlike traditional digging methods, it allows for precise excavation while avoiding the significant risk of root damage and services.
Photo is of Air Spading expert Brodie, Advanced Grounds Management
What Are The Benefits Of Air Spades:
1. Minimised Root Damage
One of the greatest threats to tree health during excavation is root damage. Traditional mechanical excavation can sever or crush tree roots, impairing the tree’s ability to absorb water and nutrients, ultimately leading to poor health, structural integrity or even death [yikes!]. Air Spades use compressed air to expose tree roots without damaging them, preserving the root structure and supporting long-term tree health.
2. Efficient Aeration and Soil Decompaction
Soil compaction is a common problem where foot traffic, construction, and vehicles can compact the soil around a tree’s roots. Compacted soil reduces the space available for oxygen, water, and nutrients to reach the roots, stressing the tree over time. Air Spades not only excavate but can also help decompact soil around tree roots, improving air circulation and allowing nutrients and water to flow more freely. This process is particularly beneficial in tree preservation and rehabilitation efforts.
3. Precision in Root Collar Excavation
Root collar excavation is vital for diagnosing and addressing problems such as girdling roots, soil compaction, or even hidden decay that could threaten the health of your tree. With Air Spading, this process is done with precision, using high-pressure air to remove soil around the root collar without damaging those delicate roots. It’s like giving your trees a spa treatment, allowing them to breathe better and grow stronger.
How To Treat Your Trees Properly
The best approach when doing large-scale work around trees is to set up a barrier around the tree’s essential root zone, also known as the drip line [basically where the branches stop]. Mulch up to this point and keep the area undisturbed.
And yep, there’s actually an Australian standard and guidelines for preserving trees on construction sites!
If anything within this zone might need to be disturbed, it’s crucial to consult a professional horticulturist or arborist first. Research shows that up to 25% of the essential root zone can be safely impacted if handled properly, without causing harm to the tree. We get that working around trees can be tricky, but there’s a right and safe way to do it!
Aftercare is just as crucial as the steps mentioned above. Trees can bounce back from quite a bit if given the right care afterwards. Just because a tree looks okay right now doesn’t mean it’s in the clear. Generally speaking, trees can show signs of damage or decline up to 12 months after the initial issue. That’s why we’re still seeing the effects of tree damage from those dreaded floods a few years back!
Thanks, Micheal, you really are a wealth of gardening knowledge and we’re always grateful when you share it with us!
If you’re interested in getting your trees [and the rest of your garden] in tip-top shape, we totally recommend reaching out to Michael and the crew at Turf 2 Trees Horticulture.
Head to their website to find out more.
And now we know, Air Spading is way more effective than air guitar!
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