Proper planting techniques will help avoid girdling roots, as will good plant selection (e.g., Norway maples seem particularly prone to this condition.)
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Girdling roots
Periodically walk through your garden, inspecting the base around each tree. If you see roots on the soil surface, they may indicate several problems relating to the health of the tree.
Figure B ...
Potbound plants exhibit circling root systems that if not corrected become girdling roots, which can lead to the early death of otherwise healthy trees and shrubs.
If you're worried about how much root to cut off, err on the side of caution. Girdling roots, roots that wrap around the base of a young plant, should be removed as soon as you detect them. Never remove large girdling roots of mature trees.
Growing Advice: Don't plant too deep or you risk developing girdling roots. Instead, keep the highest roots within the top inch of soil.
Prize Picks: Try Prairie Pride's shiny green leaves, which turn yellow for a showy fall display.
 See also: Growing, Girdling root, Girdling, Plant, Water
  
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