Soil Decompaction
What is Soil Decompaction?
Decompaction is a process where soils that have been compressed over time are mechanically manipulated, creating fissures, gaps and air pockets. This allows for greater nutrient uptake greater water movement and importantly allows for invertebrate movement through the soil.
Soil Decompaction is usually recommended when areas around trees have been historically compacted for a long time, such as parks or street trees. It is also specified by the Local Planning Authority or Arboricultural consultants where machinery or materials have encroached into the RPA of protected trees on construction sites.
Research has shown that compacted soils are detrimental to tree health and can cause the following issues for tree roots:
Soil Compaction & Effects Of Compacted Soils:
- Greater rainwater runoff, leading to lower levels of soil moisture
- Less available nutrients in the soil
- Less available rooting area for fibrous roots
- Lower levels of organic matter within the soil
Decompaction Services offered:
We offer two types of decompaction services to our clients: Deep Decompaction and Shallow Decompaction.
Deep Decompaction is typically recommended and involves a lance being inserted into the soil in a grid pattern and high pressure air being injected to create fractures and fissures in the soil. Compost tea can also be added to the soil at this stage to give the tree a boost in nutrients.
Shallow Decompaction is where the top 20-30cm of soil is turned over with an airspade tool. This breaks up the top compacted layer of soil allowing for greater water and nutrient absorption. Biochar and a Compost tea drench can also be applied to the soil following this.
Typically, this would be a one-off operation, however, in areas of high pedestrian access (such as parks or gardens) we can undertake a more regular regime of soil decompaction where required.
Please contact us for more information on any of our services. Learn more about us.
FAQ's on Soil Decompaction & Tree Healthcare
Soil compaction can be caused by a variety of factors, including heavy foot or vehicle traffic, excessive rainfall, or improper soil preparation during construction or landscaping projects.
Soil compaction can restrict the movement of air, water, and nutrients in the soil, making it difficult for plant roots to penetrate and absorb these essential resources. This can lead to stunted growth, poor yields, and increased susceptibility to disease and pests.
The benefits of soil decompaction include improved soil structure, increased nutrient and water uptake by plants, and enhanced soil aeration and drainage. This can lead to healthier, more productive plants and a more sustainable growing environment.
The best time to decompact soil is during the growing season when plants are actively growing and can benefit from improved soil conditions. However, it is important to avoid decompaction when the soil is wet, as this can cause further damage to the soil structure.
Soil decompaction can disrupt soil microbial communities, which play an important role in nutrient cycling and soil health. However, if done correctly, soil decompaction can also create more favorable conditions for microbial growth and activity.
The frequency of soil decompaction will depend on the soil type, degree of compaction, and other site-specific factors. It is generally recommended to decompact soil on a regular basis to maintain optimal soil health and productivity.
Over time soils in urban and high use areas suffer compaction. This is where the upper layers are compressed through people walking on them, vehicles use or machinery. Over time this compression forces all the soil particles together and causes a hard crust to form that does not allow for moisture or nutrient absorption.
Tree Healthcare is the process of managing trees with their health and vitality in mind. We focus on soil improvement and the root systems of the trees as this is where most health issues begin. Typical healthcare operations we undertake include Decompaction, Biochar and Mulch applications, Compost Tea drenches and even adding worms to the soil!
Biochar is pure carbon that has been enriched with beneficial fungi, trace nutrients and good bacteria to improve plant growth. Biochar improves soil structure, water holding capacity and overall nutrient retention.
Chemical fertilizer is created as a by-product of the petroleum industry, it is extremely chemically intensive and is not a particularly sustainable way of soil improvement.
Compost tea is made using 100% organic material, it is brewed by ourselves in our own fermentation system for 48hrs before use. Compost tea is a great way to give the soil a boost of nutrients and organic materials.
Professional Service
Impartial, Accurate, High quality reports
Fast Turnaround
Reports typically delivered within 24hrs
Experienced
Many years experience with trees & planning
Full Insurance
Public Liability, Professional indemnity & Employers Liability