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• <br />causes a lack of vitality and decline within the tree as a whole. Soil compaction is <br />commonly the result of short term heavy or any long term traffic in the root zone. <br />The effects of soil compaction may not become apparent in the tree for decades <br />following the initial compaction event. <br />If signs of stress are present, a soil test may be made to assess the <br />fertility of the soil. Testing establishes the presence and degree of vital nutrients <br />and micro-flora. Vital soil is essential to vital tree growth, the presence of <br />nutrients and organisms within the soil mean that growth can continue. An <br />imbalance of nutrients can cause poor vitality; often exhibited by leaf <br />discoloration, distortion or lack of annual growth. Poor nutrition will slow growth <br />and can diminish the trees natural defense mechanisms and expose the tree to <br />disease. <br />In nature, few tree species grow alone; the forest is their natural and <br />protected setting. Whether native or introduced, irregardless of a trees origin, <br />trees in a landscape setting demand special attention. Although bound by the <br />genetic code of its predecessors each tree is also the product of its local <br />E�nvironment in terms of health and stability. <br />Looking at the overall <br />picture, the health and condition <br />of the soil, turF and other plants <br />and trees can reveal the cause of <br />disease, or indicate potential <br />problems. The presence of <br />certain species of fungus can <br />indicate decay. Certain decay <br />fungi may destroy support tissues <br />and leave conductive tissues unharmed. The tree may appear healthy and <br />continue to grow until the internal decay outpaces the new outer growth. <br />A root crown examination may be necessary if root decay is suspected. By <br />removing the soil at the base of the tree, the location, health and condition of the <br />absorbing and support roots can be determined. <br />Villas at Glenwood Terrace Tree Risk Assessment Robert W. Williams Consulting Arborist 3 <br />