Air Spading Services

What Is Air Spading?

An air spade or air tool is a hand-held device attached to a compressor using high-pressured air to remove soil and mulch to expose roots and the root collar. This is a fast noninvasive way for arborists to prune roots or excavate. It allows a more surgical approach than traditional excavation methods that indiscriminately cut all the roots. By exposing the roots and the trunk of plants, we are able to remove girdling roots or prune roots causing the least harm to the plant.

Air Spades remove soil with compressed air and are specially designed to carefully remove soil from around a tree’s roots or its base without causing damage.

With high-pressure air blown through a hose, the soil is moved away from the trunk and/or roots. When this happens, the roots, root flare, and trunk are exposed, making it easy for arborists to inspect them. When the root flare is exposed, arborists are able to gather essential information about the structure and health of the tree.

Gaining access to root systems through air spading is a great way to check the roots for rot residing beneath the tree’s surface, as well as to break up soil that is compacted, preventing the roots from getting water and nutrients. Air spading also provides arborists with access to the roots, allowing them to diagnose and treat potential issues.

Without air spading accessing roots can be extremely difficult and risky. An arborist will need to the roots themselves to expose them. This is time and labor-intensive. Additionally, digging around the roots can cause damage to the tree base or roots.

Air Spades are used for root excavation. The device is strong and powerful, with the ability to handle clay and large clumps of soil. Plus because it utilizes compressed air, air spades safely handle sensitive root systems.

When an arborist uses an air spade, they are typically removing soil from the base of a tree to expose the root system underneath. With the roots exposed the arborist can:

• Prepare for root inspections
• Remove excess soil
• Diagnose tree or root issues
• Prepare for a variety of treatments
• Excavate deeply planted trees
• Safely prune roots
• Facilitate trenches, typically for gas, electricity, water, or internet

To keep your trees healthy and safe, you will need to have their roots checked. Air Spading utilizes a gentle yet powerful process that protects the tree while getting to the bottom of things. Make sure your trees are healthy without putting them at risk.

If you have questions about tree service or plant health care or would like an estimate, please give Mid Florida Tree Service a call at (813) 588-0315.