Girdling roots happen when a tree's roots grow in a circle instead of spreading outward, usually because it was planted too close to a foundation, sidewalk, or another root system. Over years, that circling root can wrap around the trunk and slowly choke it.
It's a slow problem, which is part of what makes it dangerous. The tree can look fine on the surface for a long time while the root is doing damage below ground, and by the time the canopy starts thinning, the girdling has usually been happening for years.
We see it often on trees planted close to driveways and property lines in older Houston neighborhoods. Catching it early sometimes means the root can be cut and the tree saved; catching it late usually means removal.
Do you have a tree planted close to your driveway, sidewalk, or foundation that's been on your mind? It's worth having a look before it becomes a bigger issue.
#TreePreservation
A real photo showing an exposed girdling root at a trunk base from an actual Houston job, or a before/after of a root correction. Close, clear shots of the root-to-trunk junction communicate the issue best.
Canva text suggestion: "Planted too close? Roots can strangle a tree" or "The slow problem hiding underground"