Stem-Girdling Roots

Stem-girdling roots and dysfunctional root systems are 2 very big problems with trees, especially in urban landscapes. The good news is that they are totally preventable. Trees just simply need to be planted correctly! Learn more about stem-girdling roots (PDF) and scroll down and view the pictures.

Obvious SGR's encircling around this maple

SGR 1

A dysfunctional root system; roots are growing every which way

SGR 2

Mid-July and the leaves are already turning on this Autum Blaze Maple -a clear indication the tree is stressed

SGR 3

This is why: the tree above has a dysfunctional root system containing SGR's

SGR 4

Early summer and this Linden never leafed out?

SGR 5

This tree was planted in a landscape bed and the blocks have caused the roots to become dysfunctional; also, it was planted too deep

SGR 6

This is how the roots should be growing on a tree- out and away from the trunk

SGR 7

Here we have the results of trees with SGR's in a wind storm

Hayes Park Linden 2
SGR Maple