does dirt placed around an older tree damage it in any way?

Answer 1

It depends on how the dirt is placed. Most trees won't tolerate having soil piled up over the roots or around the base of the trunk. Each kind of tree has its own requirements as to depth of roots and trunk.

Answer 2

Changing the grade around an established tree is a proven way to kill them. It doesnt happen right away...it can take a few years even.

If you have to regrade for, say, a drainage problem, look into building a retaining wall to keep the extra soil off the trees roots. They do suffocate. You may be able to add some soil to one side of the tree and not kill it. But it won't like it in any case.

If you are just trying to fill up bare spots around an old tree that has some roots visible around it, like the ones that you keep whacking with the lawnmower, you can add a few inches to just cover what is sticking up and that won't hurt anything.

Results depend on the tree and how much you add; and how fast you add it. You should not cover the 'root flare' which is the wide spot at the bottom of the trunk.

Answer 3

the root formation is formed. A tree is a living organism and it requires its roots at a certain level to breathe and get nourishment. To throw dirt on an old tree is like covering up your nose with a pillow.
If you are doing it sticktly to decorate and you want to improve the landscape adding dirt gradually can allow you to do that. The tree will send up roots to use. But anything than a few inches forget it.

Answer 4

dirt layered on the roots suffocates them.
if they can't breathe, the tree's leaves will wilt and it will eventually die.

Answer 5

rule of thumb.....add 1 foot of dirt per yr. ....