Question
Dear Mr. Crowder:

I recently had to have a septic system replaced, and the drain field was elevated by 18".  The contractor pushed dirt up to the trunk of 4 trees on one side.  I do not want to lose any more trees (I had to remove 8 maples for the drain field) and want to know how I can protect / provide a barrier of some sort (like a U-shape) to help the trees.  Any suggestions?

Mary

Answer
Hi Mary, Covering the root zone of any tree with as little as 2" of soil can kill it.  The root zone is about twice the width of the canopy.  So your problem isn't just soil on the trunk (which is bad also).   If only part of the root zone is covered, then the roots on that side will die.  I'm afraid I don't have good news for you. Over the next few years, you will see the trees decline unless the soil is removed so the roots are at the surface.  If that's not possible, plant replacement trees this fall.  Jim