Root Zone Aeration
Aeration of the root zone of trees is vital for tree health and well-being. It loosens compacted soil, enabling better pruning of roots and addition of missing organic material and nutrients. Root zone aeration with an airspade uses compressed air, forced through a supersonic nozzle, to remove compacted soil. It exposes the root structure of trees, and is a safe, environmentally-friendly process.
A dense, compacted soil is unhealthy for trees, causing them to be stressed and susceptible to disease and pest infestations. Compacted soil also reduces tree roots’ ability to absorb essential nutrients. Trees in this situation may show signs of early fall coloring, fewer leaves, or dieback of the crown.

AirSpade for Soil Aeration
An airspade is a specialised trencher with a supersonic nozzle that shoots compressed air at a high velocity to dislodge compact soils. It is ideal for soil removal near tree roots and other sensitive areas, and for contaminated soil remediation. Its supersonic nozzle also provides protection from high voltage electrical lines, reducing the risk of spark-induced accidents.
Compressed Air Aeration
The AirSpade for compressed air aeration is a tool that can be used to aerate plants and soils. The device works by driving a modified airspade into the soil 30cm below the surface. The high-pressure compressed air is injected into the soil to break up the compaction.
The AirSpade can be used to aerate soil around the roots of trees. This helps eliminate soil compaction, and enables the tree to grow. It also allows the soil around the roots to be amended with missing organic material and nutrients. The AirSpade can be used in a variety of situations, including the planting of new trees in the landscape.
Safety Precautions
When using an airspade, it is important to follow all manufacturer’s instructions. It is also important to regularly inspect hoses for leaks, kinks, corrosion, and any signs of damage. Airspades should always be operated with extreme caution to avoid any injuries.
Before using an AirSpade, it is important to assess the overall condition of trees that will be affected. In addition, it is recommended to have the trees evaluated by a certified arborist. This will ensure that proper care is given prior to the work and for the following few days after. The reason for this is that trees are particularly susceptible to cold, injury, drought, and pests, so proper care should be taken to protect them.
Root Zone Aeration Specialists
ArborAeration specialise in root zone aeration and tree root investigations using an airspade. For more information, please message us via our contact form.



