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Soil Issues/raised planting bed

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Expert: James L. Crowder - 5/29/2009


Question
I would like to build a raised planting bed around an existing red maple tree.  Will it hurt the tree to raise the soil level around the trunk 24 to 32 inches above existing grade?

Answer
Hi Phillip, Depends...on the size of the tree. On a mature tree, adding a 3'-6' wide bed will not hurt the tree.  The important roots are well beyond the dripline.  You would kill a small tree doing the same thing because you would be covering the surface roots that need air.  In either case, you cannot let the soil touch the trunk,  Build a retainer wall close to the trunk, allowing for future growth, to keep the soil away.  Jim

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James L. Crowder

Expertise

I can answer questions about soils, soil amendments, drainage and proper planting. I can answer questions about insects and diseases, weed control, etc. I have extensive background in homeowner labeled pesticides (insecticides, herbicides, fungicides, etc.) and their proper use. I can also answer questions about the growing requirements of specific plants.

Experience

I have 40 years experience in the lawn and garden business split fairly evenly between the retail nursery business and wholesale distribution of consumer lawn and garden products. From 1990 to 2000 I co-hosted a weekly call-in talk radio program in Memphis, TN.

Organizations
Garden Writers Association

Publications
Green Thumb Magazine - out of print

Education/Credentials
40 years of learning everday.

Awards and Honors
Past president of the Memphis Horticultural Society. Past president of the Memphis Bonsai Society. Memphis Horticultural Society 2008 Horticultural Excellence Award

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