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Roots missing from one side

missing roots

Root systems sometimes develop without any roots on one side of the tree. The tree on the right has two main roots (see arrows) nearly opposite one another with no roots between them on this side of the tree. This makes the tree unstable but this defect will remain undetected without a root collar excavation.

Treatment: If root excavations reveal a root system like this, consider keeping the tree canopy small with regular reduction or thinning.