Airspade Story

ARBOR
Technical Applications Bulletin

Use of Compressed Air-Powered Excavation
for Arboricultural Site Works
AirSpade®
Use of Compressed Air-powered Excavation
for Arboricultural Site Works
contributing authors
Kelby Fite, Ph.D

Dr. Thomas Smiley
Richard N. Sweet
Thomas C. Tremblay
Joseph Wahler
specifications Vincent P. Rico
editor Terence J. Fitzpatrick
research funded by
Guardair Corporation
prepared by
Stephen Stimson Associates | Landscape Architects

in collaboration with Bartlett Tree Research Laboratories
AirSpade®
Use of compressed air-powered excavation
for arboricultural site works.
September, 2016
contributing authors
Kelby Fite, Ph.D
Dr. Tom Smiley
Richard N. Sweet
Thomas C. Tremblay
Joseph Wahler
Vincent P. Rico, specifications
Terence J. Fitzpatrick, editor
With construction master specifications by Vincent P.

Rico, of Rico Associates, and standard construction detail
drawings by Stephen Stimson Associates available online
through Guardair Corporation at www.airspade.com/guide
Prepared by Stephen Stimson Associates | Landscape

Architects, Cambridge, MA and Princeton, MA; and in
collaboration with Bartlett Tree Research Laboratories,
Charlotte, NC.
Research and publication funded by Guardair Corporation.
Table of Contents
INTRODUCTION 03
Arboricultural Research and Practice 05
by Dr. Tom Smiley and Kelby Fite
AirSpade Innovations, Techniques, Technologies 06

by Richard N. Sweet and Thomas C. Tremblay
Anticipate and React: Landscape Architectural Practice 09

by Joseph Wahler
Critical Root Zone: Issues & Applications 14
STANDARD CONSTRUCTION DETAILS 16

General Site Provisions 16
Air Tilling (Root Invigoration) 18
Radial Trenching 20
Vertical Mulching 22
Root Collar Excavation 24
Root Pruning 26
Bare Rooting 28
Urban Soil Replacement 30
APPENDIX 32
Soil Amendments 33
Construction Specifications 34
Glossary 40
Further Reading 42
Credits and Bios 43

Heritage tree preservation at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology: Successful placed the project arborist from Bartlett Tree Experts in an integral role in the design
tree preserva-tion requires collaboration with landscape architects, arborists, consultants, process and throughout construction. (Image courtesy of Stephen Stimson Associates.)
utilities, and contractors. The work shown here at M.I.T. utilized air-spading techniques and
2 AirSpade Technical Applications Bulletin
Introduction by Terence J. Fitzpatrick, ASLA
It’s fair to say that we value our trees a little more than we used to. Excavation with tools using compressed air, or air-spading, has been
developed as a technique in the tree-care industry since the mid-
Nowhere is this more true than in cities where the desire for human 1990’s. These methods allow tree roots to be excavated efficiently
comfort and enjoyment align with the imperatives of economic, and without damage. This makes it possible to care for a tree’s soil
environmental, and social sustainability. Increasingly, people are turning and root system, for example, in highly trafficked landscapes where soil
to cities as places to live and interact, grow, learn, and find inspiration. becomes compacted or otherwise unsuited to natural tree growth or to
We now have many examples of cities progressing beyond single-minded accommodate construction projects (underground utilities, pavements,
zoning policies or car-centric urban planning, in favor of more inclusive, or building foundations), in which trees would otherwise be severely
human-scale landscapes. damaged or removed.
Trees are increasingly recognized as vital elements in our cities and ABOUT THIS BOOK
cultural landscapes. Urban forestry programs have provided enormous
benefits, including the ability to moderate a city’s microclimate and This publication is aimed not just at tree-care professionals performing
to reduce energy usage associated with the heating and cooling of air-spading procedures, but also to the landscape architects, urban
buildings. The cultural benefits of trees is even wider reaching than designers, engineers, contractors, consultants and decision makers
these significant, quantifiable examples. Trees appeal to an undeniable involved in any project involving tree health care and preservation.
desire of human nature. Simply put, places with healthy trees provide It brings together the leading experts in arboricultural research
comfort, enjoyment and stimulation. This translates into neighborhoods and practice, landscape architecture, and innovators in tree-care
that gain the affection and fulfillment of their inhabitants, young and technologies to illustrate common applications of air-spading and
old. This sociological impact of the built environment is no small claim. discuss the process and techniques necessary for success.
Enduring and diverse communities are necessary to support access
to economic and educational opportunities and are increasingly cited The detailed drawings and descriptions throughout the book have
by sustainability experts for their positive impacts ranging from health been prepared by Stephen Stimson Associates (SSA), a landscape
care and well-being, to energy consumption, efficiency in allocating architecture studio with decades of experience advocating for the
public funds, and improved land use practices. Trees play more than stewardship of mature trees and a record of collaboration with some of
a superficial role in this equation. In the construction and tree care the finest arborists and consultants available.
industry, we’re seeing growing investment by clients and decision
makers – public and private – who are demanding health and longevity These drawings and accompanying text are intended to be used as
from their trees. As a result, designers, arborists, and contractors are a standard reference for understanding a wide range of possible
becoming more accustomed to close collaboration, and new techniques applications and aid in communication between designers, consultants,
and technologies are being employed to promote the long-term success and contractors. Additionally, these standard details will be made
of the urban canopy. available digitally through the AirSpade website (in .pdf and .dwg file
formats). As standard details, these drawings should be carefully
In the practice of landscape architecture, there is overwhelming considered and modified to meet the specific conditions and goals of
evidence of the rising cultural value of trees. For example, the funding individual projects.
and application of scientific research in arboriculture and soil science
has grown rapidly in recent years. Both of these professions have In addition to thoroughly reviewing this publication for technical
become indispensable components of design and implementation teams, accuracy and clarity, diverse experts have contributed short essays
validated by clients and general contractors who increasingly recognize that illuminate unique perspectives on the development, future, and
their contributions to projects with successful tree preservation, practical application of the tree-care industry.
health, and longevity.
Introduction 3
In their essay, Dr. Tom Smiley and Kelby Fite, Ph.D., provide insight This small streetscape
into their research and development of practical applications using the project in Michigan’s Upper
Peninsula serves as a
AirSpade for over two decades at Bartlett Tree Research Laboratories. demonstration project,
This work has contributed immensely to the industry at large and where the construction
continues through arboricultural education programs and in supporting team successfully
the growth of air-spading as it continues to become more readily collaborated with the
project arborist and
available and acknowledged as a valuable professional service. employed new techniques
including air-spading
Next, Thomas C. Tremblay and Richard N. Sweet, both of AirSpade and structural soil
(division of Guardair Corporation in Chicopee, Massachusetts), discuss replacement.
air excavation technology and product innovation. Today more than ever,
air excavation technology is available and well suited to arboricultural
applications. This is thanks, in large part, to Guardair’s commitment to
research and development and long-term partnership and collaboration
with top people in the tree-care and horticultural industries.
At the Radcliffe Institute in
Joe Wahler contributes a third essay in which he discusses the specified Cambridge, MA, SSA and
use of an AirSpade on several projects at Stephen Stimson Associates. Bartlett Tree collaborated
These examples highlight the role of a landscape architect in driving the to save several large,
sensitive specimens.
application of best-practices and orchestrating interdisciplinary consul- Increasingly, this type of
tants and contractors. Construction projects are especially challenging stewardship is sought after
when dealing with highly variable site conditions and living trees. Joe by clients who recognize
is a master at orchestrating the details of the construction process the significant value of
their trees.
to achieve a larger vision with flexibility and creativity and describes a
process of collaborative feedback with project arborists in particular. (Images courtesy
of Stephen Stimson
Vince Rico, a landscape architect and construction specification specialist, Associates.)
has prepared a master specification in conjunction with the collaborative
effort in assembling this publication. Like the detailed drawings, these
specifications should be considered and modified based on an individual
project’s requirements and are available digitally for use by landscape
architects.
CONCLUSION
Given the rising cultural value of large trees, and the relative under-
utilization of arboricultural techniques using the AirSpade, we believe
this publication to be especially timely. The practical viability of air-
spading services has increased dramatically in recent years, while
evidence of its benefits and overwhelming acknowledgment of its value
by clients and industry professionals alike has driven a growing demand.
Still, these applications remain underutilized on most construction and
tree-care projects. With this publication, we hope to share this growing
body of knowledge and inspire more innovative project collaborations,
and more widely improved stewardship of our precious trees.
Arboricultural Research and Practice
Key findings, techniques, and practical application developed from
Bartlett Tree Research Laboratories
by Dr. Tom Smiley and Kelby Fite
The AirSpade is a unique tool in the arboriculture industry. Shortly after

its introduction to the industry in the 1990’s, we started using it here
at the Bartlett Tree Research Laboratories to address a number of
issues that affect tree health. It was a decade prior to the introduction
of the AirSpade that we first realized the negative impact of soil against
tree trunks. We found that soil in this inappropriate location resulted
in a deterioration of bark and infections of pathogenic fungi and some
insect pests. These pests could weaken or kill trees.
We addressed the root collar burial problem by recommending manual Bartlett Research Lab has been a leading voice in arboriculture since its
root collar excavation using shovels, trowels, and other tools. We were founding in 1926. Today the laboratory, located in Charlotte, North Carolina,
able to move the soil, but in the process, trunk and roots were often includes a 350-acre arboretum, several working test plots, and a fully equipped
modern laboratory. The lab continually contributes research and publications,
wounded. By replacing steel tools with high-pressure air, we could
offers a wide range of professional services such as soil testing and plant
quickly remove soil without creating additional problems. diagnostics, offers training programs for professional arborists, and houses an
extensive library and education center.
The second issue we were working with was soil compaction.
Compacted soil can lead to reduced root growth, tree decline, and
eventual mortality. We experimented with a number of tools that
injected air deeply into the soil and found that, while these tools
produced an impressive lifting of a soil plate, they made little change
in the overall density of the soil where roots develop. The AirSpade,
allowed us to till the soil and incorporate organic matter, fertilizers,
and other materials while not damaging tree roots. Years of research
revealed significant improvement in soil quality and root health with the
Root Invigoration process.
At the F.A. Bartlett Tree Expert Company, we continue to treat

buried root collars and soil compaction problems using the AirSpade.
We see positive responses from thousands of trees that receive
these treatments every year. On the research side, we are
continually striving to find improved techniques to make these
treatments more effective, faster, and safer.
Root Collar Excavation: At Williams College in Massacusetts, a certified

arborist prunes girdling roots while performing root collar excavation on a
specimen oak tree. (Image courtesy of Stephen Stimson Associates.)
Introduction 5
Air Excavation Technologies
Research and Development in an Emerging Industry
by Thomas C. Tremblay and Richard N. Sweet
A BRIEF HISTORY OF AIR EXCAVATION

The use of compressed air for excavation, as an alternative to
mechanical or manual methods, began in the 1960’s among utility
companies interested in reducing costs associated with underground
pipe repair. Pneumatic excavation proved to be a reliable way to
safely uncover utility lines without damage.
In addition to uncovering utility lines, pneumatic excavation was

tested in a number of applications during the 1970’s and 1980’s.
This included work with the Department of Defense to safely
excavate around land-mines and unexploded ordnance, as well as
“soft digging” applications in other industries. Improvements in
equipment included advancements in nozzle technology that provided
faster excavation. During this period, the AirSpade tool was first
developed and became commercially available.
AirSpade being utilized for root collar excavation: Product development
has gone hand-in hand with scientific research and the growth of practical
In the mid-1990’s, air excavation technology became widely utilized applications in professional tree care services.
within the arboriculture and site construction industries. Clearly, the
same technology used to uncover underground utility lines could also “AFM” refers to the process of air excavation, fertilization, and mulching.)
be used as a diagnostic tool for uncovering tree roots without harm.
As tree-service companies began to recognize the advantages of air “A program of air tillage, prescription fertilization, and mulch improved
excavation, many new, low-impact arboricultural applications were a suite of physical and chemical properties in urban soils. Mulch was
developed. F.A. Bartlett Tree Expert Company, the largest and most the most effective of the individual treatments, increasing soil organic
recognized tree-service company in the U.S., became an early adopter, matter and water content as effectively as the full AFM treatment and
and additional techniques followed. providing short-term decreases in soil strength. The specific benefits
of the AFM treatment differed by site. In the field, practitioners
Consequently, over the past several decades, the use of air excavation should experiment with specific materials, techniques, and treatment
tools for tree health management has grown enormously. Today, use of frequencies to best address the needs of individual sites. Nonetheless,
the AirSpade within the highly sensitive tree root-zone is a well-proven it is clear that a multi-pronged approach to soil remediation gives
practice in a wide range of arborist projects. arborists an effective means to improve compacted soils beneath
established urban trees.”
ARBORICULTURAL RESEARCH AND PRACTICE (Excerpt from “Evaluation of a Soil Decompaction and Amendment Process for
The positive benefits of air excavation for tree-care are widely recognized Urban Trees”by Kelby Fite, E. Thomas Smiley, John McIntyre, and Christina E. Wells.
Arboriculture & Urban Forestry 37(6): November 2011, ©International Society of
within the arboricultural community. To analyze these benefits, several Arboriculture.)
research studies have been conducted. Among them is the following
study on urban trees and an excerpt from the conclusions. (Note: The This study concluded that those urban trees subjected to the full
authors refer to root invigoration via air excavation as “air tillage”; benefits of AFM treatment responded most positively. AirSpade played
AirSpade® manufactured by Guardair Corporation
an integral role in developing this research in collaboration with F.A. NOZZLE DESIGN
Bartlett Tree Expert Company. This type of collaborative research To optimize the performance of compressed air applied to soils,
has advanced air-spading techniques and applications, and has also AirSpade recognized the importance of maximizing the exiting air speed
influenced the design of the AirSpade tool. (and subsequently the force) and to tightly focus the exiting air jet. This
led to the development of the patented Supersonic Nozzle that converts
TECHNOLOGICAL RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT compressed air into a high-speed, highly focused air jet moving at twice
The keys to effective and safe air excavation are (1) the design of the speed of sound – Mach 2. Equipped with the Supersonic Nozzle, the
the air output nozzle, (2) human factors, and (3) safety features that AirSpade performs better in compact soils, provides faster excavation
must be incorporated into the tool. rates, and operates more efficiently by consuming less (expensive to
produce) compressed air, thus saving time on the jobsite compared
Engineering of air excavation tools starts with an in-depth under- to other air excavation tools equipped with conventional nozzles. With
standing of the effects of directing compressed air into soils. Soil is a documented excavation rate of 1.0 to 1.5 cubic feet per minute
an unconsolidated assemblage of solid particles including clay, sand, (depending upon soil strength), the AirSpade is 2 to 3 times faster than
silt, rock, and sometimes organic matter. Voids between the particles hand digging and is highly effective in time-sensitive projects while still
are occupied by air and/or water. When compressed air is directed protecting sensitive root systems.
into soil at close range, it enters the voids, expands, and fractures
the soil in a fraction of a second. Non-porous materials such as
metal or plastic pipes, cables, or even tree roots are unaffected.
Introduction 7
HUMAN FACTORS AND SAFETY
In addition to the Supersonic Nozzle, a properly designed air excavation
tool must incorporate ergonomic features, be easy to use, and, above
all, safe. Compressed air is a powerful and potentially dangerous utility,
so the tool must be properly engineered to handle air flow at Mach 2 as
well as air pressures as high as 200 psi. Also, air excavation is often
performed in close proximity to underground electric utility lines, so
protection from high voltages is essential.
The AirSpade is designed to meet these requirements and includes the

following features:
• Lightweight, ergonomic cast aluminum handle with soft rubber grip
• Padded, full-length trigger with dead-man feature
• Steel trigger guard prevents accidental activation
• Integral air pressure gauge ensures optimal operating performance
• Rugged, lightweight, insulated fiberglass barrel
• Adjustable, dirt shield protects the operator from dislodged soil
• Extra-hardened, stainless steel Supersonic Nozzle
• ¾”FNPT air inlet accommodates standard Chicago-style swivel fitting
CONCLUSION
Over the past 30+ years, the AirSpade has become a must-have tool
for tree-service companies providing tree health management and site
construction services. Applications using the AirSpade are safe for
both trees and personnel on site. When paired with a standard 185
cfm tow-behind air compressor, the AirSpade delivers exceptional
Supersonic Nozzle: Soil fractures from stress (force per unit area)
performance for a range of applications at remote locations. Through
applied to its surface. Focusing this force on a small unit area results
in faster, and more efficient soil excavation. As shown in the diagrams ongoing engineering, research, and experimentation, AirSpade continues
above, air exiting from an open pipe, or from a conventional nozzle, to develop new options, nozzle sizes, and accessories in response to
expands rapidly outward, across 3 to 4 times the unit area, versus
the focused output of the
demand from arborists and other end-users.
AirSpade Supersonic Nozzle.
In addition, open pipes or
conventional nozzles operate
at speeds below Mach 2.
Thus, the Supersonic Nozzle
outperforms other air-jets
by a wide margin.
Unfocused Air Flow from Focused Air Flow from
Pipe or Improperly Designed Nozzle Airspade Supersonic Nozzle

Anticipate and React
Landscape Architectural Practice and New Opportunities
for Tree Preservation
by Joe Wahler,
Landscape Architect, RLA, ASLA
Principal, Stephen Stimson Associates
Our goal for every project is to anticipate potential issues and establish
procedures with our collaborators (client, contractor, consulting
professionals, plant nursery, and maintenance) that result in long-term
success. Plant protection and establishment is a complex and dynamic
endeavor that requires a good plan but also tools to react and remedy
unintended poor growing conditions, which, unfortunately, happen more
often than we would like. This is the reality of landscape design and
construction that requires myriad tools and operations.
The importance and value of trees in our urban environments and

private landscapes is well documented and espoused by landscape
professionals. Chief among these are trees’ social and environmental
benefits. The livability and quality of our urban environments depend on Site Plan: The Center for Parks and People at Archentoroly Terrace in Baltimore,
designed by Stephen Stimson Associates.
the cultivation and preservation of our urban forests. Trees play a vital
role through carbon sequestration, production of oxygen, heat island
reduction, and storm water management. All of these benefits are of of our project alone are many old growth heritage trees, including a
utmost importance as global population centers densify. seventy-two-inch caliper yellow poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera), which
anchors the site’s main pedestrian arrival point adjacent to the city’s
Preserving existing trees and cultivating the urban canopy are important Mondawmin Metro Station.
missions of the landscape profession that have local and global impacts.
The science of preserving and nurturing our trees is rapidly evolving and The location of every tree was included on the survey, but a lack
an area of focus for us as landscape professionals. We have increasingly of management of the parcel for over twenty years resulted in an
specified the use of air-spading for the preservation and protection of overgrown, nearly impenetrable wild. After clearing of the site’s
existing heritage trees, conditioning of nursery-grown material, and to understory by a herd of goats, the Parks and People’s staff arborist
remedy post-completion challenges. led a group of community children in the identification, assessment,
and measurement of the trees’ diameters and canopies. The use of
goats was the idea of the client and their representative in response
PRESERVING HERITAGE TREES to our tree protection plan, which limited the use of machinery within
We have been working with the Parks and People Foundation since all critical root zones (CRZ).
2006 on their new headquarters in Baltimore’s Druid Hill Park. The
park, originally part of Dr. George Buchanan’s Auchentoroly estate, We specified that all work within CRZs was to be supervised by a
was purchased by the City of Baltimore in 1860. The urban park, certified arborist and any excavation be done by AirSpade only. The site
designed by Howard Daniels and John Latrobe, includes some of the design we developed was sensitive to the existing trees and minimized
oldest growth forest in the state. Within the construction limits disturbance to the greatest extent possible. Where construction
Introduction 9
Goat Clearing: At Parks and People, goats were brought to clear the overgrown site Tree Survey: Parks and People’s arborist worked with local youths to survey the
without causing damage to the numerous large specimen trees throughout the wooded overgrown forest, including many of the largest trees in the area, and to help develop
lot. (Photo by Meredith Cohn from the Baltimore Sun, copyright, 2009.) a vision for the design and protection of the site and its existing resources.
within the CRZs was necessary, strict procedures were developed in dissimilar water retention between the root ball and the site soil and
and implemented. One aspect of construction was directly adjacent difficulty in managing irrigation and nutrients. Blending of the nursery
to the yellow poplar where the main pedestrian path extended the and site soil profile is critical for the management and long-term
project’s geometries to create a connection to the subway station and success of the plant.
community.
We are working with F.A. Bartlett Tree Expert Company to precondition
Excavation for the path subbase and step foundation was done by in ground, and container-grown plant material prior to planting a five
air-spading. This allowed the tree roots to be exposed and properly (5) acre intensive green roof at Harvard University. Pine & Swallow
protected or avoided in the construction of these elements. Through Environmental, the project soil scientist, is designing engineered soil
this process, an encounter with this enormous specimen tree was made mixes that are well draining with high sand percentages. Based on our
possible, providing visitors with a consciousness of the site’s history collective experience, we are developing a procedure to remove the
and longevity. plants’ nursery soil using an AirSpade. The plants will be transported to
a holding yard at the site, the root balls will be bare rooted by AirSpade
CONDITIONING NURSERY MATERIAL to remove a significant amount of the nursery or container soil to
expose the root systems and allow for blending of the root ball soil and
Nurseries tend to exist in rich alluvial soils that have a high percentage engineered site soil.
of fine-grained silts and clay. These soils are generally slow draining,
which keeps moisture near the plants’ roots and thus reduces the This will be done just prior to planting by F.A. Bartlett Tree Expert
need for irrigation by the grower. When these nursery plants are Company and the installing contractor. The goal is to minimize the
transplanted, their root systems are significantly reduced as a result. dissimilar watering requirements of the nursery soil and site soil. It will
The trees are then planted in site soils (whether amended existing soils also allow for the establishment of a healthy root system through the
or engineered soils), that are typically more coarse and well-draining. correction with any problematic crossing or girdling roots.
This can result
Parks and People, Baltimore: The site seen here, still in construction, has many large
trees that define the experience of the site and its value to the community (photo
courtesy of Ziger/Snead, LLC., architects).
POST–COMPLETION REMEDY
The built landscape is never perfect, and avoidable problems have a way
of compounding when they evade detection. We’ve been reminded of
this reality from time to time through valuable although difficult learning
experiences. This was the case on a private residence we designed in
Cambridge, Massachusetts.
We had specified an American beech (Fagus grandiflora) hedge along the

street side of this double lot urban residence. We tagged the plants at
the nursery with the contractor, checking for good branch structure and
shape. The plants were beautifully full to the ground, which was perfect
for the intended use, but we failed to notice that the trees’ crowns
were buried by an average of six inches of soil from years of field tilling.
All provisions were made on site for a successful planting. The site soil Yellow poplar (Liriodendron
was evaluated and infiltration tests were done prior to planting. The site tulipifera): The Parks and People
soil was an urban fill soil that was finely graded with low but acceptable site included several massive
infiltration rates. specimen trees, including this one,
which without proper consideration
could easily have been severely
The trees were planted with the root ball slightly high of the finish damaged or destroyed in the
grade per our details and created a beautiful twelve-foot hedge at the construction process.
completion of construction. The plants were fine for the first season, as
Introduction 11
Harvard Divinity School, Rockefeller Hall: Clients and decision makers are increasingly that, in the past, would have been considered economically infeasible or impossible to
aware of the social and economic benefits of mature trees in their landscape. This integrate into the constraints of a construction project.
combined with advanced techniques involving air-spading allow the tools to preserve trees (Image courtesy of Stephen Stimson Associates.)

Cambridge Residence: The beech hedge shown prior to initial planting. Despite proper Cambridge Residence: The beech hedge was planted to enclose a generous lawn and
planting, the plants subsided, resulting in their root crown being too low, and the hedgerow private garden space.
soil poorly drained. Root crown excavation and drainage cores were the remedy implemented
by the project arborist, and the trees have done very well ever since.
is the case with most nursery material, but they slowly started showing CONCLUSION
signs of stress and decline during the second season. Air excavation has allowed us to design landscapes in close proximity to
heritage trees and for problems to be resolved with minimal disturbance
We asked F.A. Bartlett Tree Expert Company to investigate the plants and maximum effect. We have been fortunate to collaborate with
and determine the cause of decline. They determined that the soil leading landscape professionals in the development, preservation, and
profile was over-saturated from too much irrigation and slow infiltratio remediation phases of our projects. The preservation and expansion of
but, more importantly, that the trees’ crowns were too low, which was our collective tree canopy is of great importance to us and our work.
limiting air exchange. They recommended an extensive removal of the These ambitions have benefited greatly from air excavation techniques
mulch and topsoil to expose the plants’ crowns and drainage cores (also and technologies as well as from the ongoing scientific research and
known as vertical mulching) through the planting soil and into the subsoil first-hand experience of our allied professionals.
to increase water infiltration. The soil removal and drainage cores were
done by air-spading to minimize the impact on the plants. A continuing
care program was implemented following the remediation, and now,
eight years later, the plants are thriving.
Introduction 13
Planting Beds
Applications with AirSpade such as vertical
mulching and radial trenching allow limited
disturbance when working in planting areas.
Alternatively, shrubs, perennials, and
Shallow / Heaving Roots groundcovers can be quickly and safely bare-
This sympton of anaerobic and/or limited rooted (and re-planted) during more extensive
soil volume is also damaging to pavement. soil care or construction.
Using AirSpade, a trained arborist can safely
excavate the root system to perform root
pruning, train or lower roots, and oversee the
replacement of a pavement system.
New Construction
AirSpade makes it possible to limit
damage to tree root systems when
performing excavation for building
foundations or site construction.
Poor Urban Soils
AirSpade can be used to replace or
Utility Trenching
modify urban soils, or to install tree
AirSpade can safetly trench within the
life-support infrastructure such as
critical root zone. Root pruning and tree
aeration, irrigation, or root barriers.
protection should be performed under
the supervision of a certified arborist.
The Critical Root Zone: Issues & Applications

The use of a compressed air-powered tool, or AirSpade, facilitates unfavorable to a tree’s health, including soil that is overly compacted,
excavation, soil management, and tree health-care within a tree’s poorly drained, anaerobic, or imbalanced in its physical or chemical
critical root zone (CRZ). In fact, the proven benefits to tree health from composition. Depending on specific site conditions and proper evaluation
air-spading has made it a preferred means for professional arborists. by a certified arborist, an appropriate intervention can be chosen from
Unlike mechanical excavation techniques, air-spading efficiently removes a range of air-spading applications. Air tilling, radial trenching, and
or loosens soil without damaging a tree’s delicate root system. There vertical mulching are examples of operations commonly used for soil
are several common reasons for requiring the use of an AirSpade, all of management. Each can serve simply as a method of decompaction,
which open new possibilities for landscape stewardship and construction which yields considerable health benefits to the tree, or used as an
involving valuable, established trees. implementation method for soil augmentation.
Root Zone Soil Management Soil Replacement

The AirSpade can be used to mitigate many soil conditions that are Soil replacement is sometimes desirable for trees which have very
poor soil, or where new landscape construction occurs around the
Shallow Root Growth
Common Soil Issues AirSpade operations such as vertical
Certified arborists and other experts should mulching can increase the viable soil depth.
identify issues affecting tree health including
soil composition, compaction, aeration, and
hydrology. Savvy application of AirSpade will
maximize health benefits, safety, and flexibility Trees At Improper Elevation
TOPSOIL ‘A’ HORIZON
in responding to these vital issues. Excavation with AirSpade is used to correct
grade and allow structural root pruning.
SUBSOIL ‘B’ HORIZON
SUBGRADE ‘C’ HORIZON
existing tree. Examples may include urban trees with poor soils or which limit soil aeration and can be heaved by roots if a proper planting
the installation of sand-based or reinforced topsoils for high-use lawn system is not provided. Air tilling can be useful to detect root defects and
areas. Air-tilling, full or partial bare-rooting, and soil blending are ideal improper planting. Root collar excavation, root pruning, and bare rooting
applications for this type of work. are applications that most commonly involve corrections to root structure.
Corrections to Root Structure Specialized Excavation for Construction

Corrections to a tree’s root system is another important operation Lacking proper consideration, excavation to build foundations, install
involving the use of an AirSpade. Common issues include girdling roots pavements, or install or maintain utilities can cause excessive
caused by trees that are planted too low, have settled, or have soil built damage to a tree’s critical root zone. Once necessary excavation is
up at their base, heaving roots due to shallow depth of viable soil, or completed using an AirSpade, an arborist can prune and train roots as
constricted growing space. These issues are often amplified in urban necessary and oversee care and protection of the tree during and after
conditions with poor soils and tree pits that limit growth and pavements, construction.
Introduction 15
General Site Provisions
Proper site preparation, tree protection, and safety procedures are
vital to the success of any project using an AirSpade.
Overall tree health is crucial prior to the use of an AirSpade. The

project team, including a certified arborist, should evaluate trees to be
impacted and ensure proper watering and health-care well in advance of
the scheduled work. Tree health-care should also be scheduled for the
period following the procedure, when trees can be especially susceptible
to cold, injury, drought, and pests.
When using an AirSpade, it is important to perform a field moisture

test to ensure that the soil is near field capacity but not saturated. If
the soil is too dry, excess dust will be generated, and if too wet, the
use of an AirSpade will spray mud and can destroy soil structure. Some
AirSpade applications require the removal of turf or other plant material
first. Turf within the work area should be treated with herbicide well in
advance of air-spading, or it can be removed just prior to the operation.
Shrubs and ground-covers can be either left in place or temporarily
relocated.
Site protection plans should be developed with the landscape architect

prior to the start of work. When working on a construction site, it is
advisable to install tree protection fencing to restrict traffic within the
critical root zone. Airborne stones or other particles can cause risk to
nearby people and property within 25 feet (7.5 m) or more. Protective
barriers (made from plywood or fabric) may be moved during the
operation or fixed throughout the site as necessary.
The safety of the operator, and nearby people and property is of

paramount importance when using compressed air powered tools such
as an AirSpade. The use of these tools requires training and education
beyond what is covered in this book. Always be sure to reference
the tool manufacturer for their most updated safety procedures and
operational materials.
top photo: Tree protection is a basic and vital provision for any construction site. Many
projects have well-defined protection areas, including critical root zones (CRZ), and even pre-
defined damage-penalties based on established tree valuation standards. All of these things
provide insurance and help contractors deliver on the project goals. (Image courtesy of SSA.)
bottom photo: Use of the AirSpade can send soil particles airborne at a very high
rate. Operators should wear proper clothing and barriers should be used to protect
pedestrians and adjacent property from damage.

NOTES:
1. THE CRITICAL ROOT ZONE (CRZ) SHALL BE ESTABLISHED BY THE ARBORIST AND LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT.
THE CRZ MAY BE WITHIN OR OUTSIDE OF THE TREE'S DRIPLINE DEPENDING ON THE PROJECT GOALS,
CURRENT AND FUTURE PROJECTION OF THE TREE'S ROOT PROLIFERATION, AND OTHER SITE CONDITIONS.
THE CRZ SHALL BE PROTECTED AND MAINTAINED BY ALL CONTRACTORS THROUGHOUT CONSTRUCTION.
ANY WORK WITHIN THE CRITICAL ROOT ZONE SHALL BE OVERSEEN BY THE ARBORIST.
2. UNLESS OTHERWISE SPECIFIED, TREE PROTECTION FENCE SHALL BE 6' HT. STEEL CHAIN LINK FENCE,
POSTS DRIVEN INTO GRADE. DO NOT HARM TREE ROOTS; SURFACE MOUNTED POST ANCHORS MAY BE
ACCEPTABLE IF FENCE IS REQUIRED WITHIN TREE ROOT ZONE. 5' MIN.
3. CERTAIN PROCEDURES REQUIRE ALL TURF WITHIN AREA TO BE AIR-SPADED SHOULD BE REMOVED IN
ADVANCE USING AN HERBICIDAL TREATMENT. OTHER PLANT MATERIAL SHALL REMAIN IN PLACE, OR BE
TEMPORARILY RELOCATED AND PROTECTED AS SPECIFIED BY THE L.A.
R.,
VA .D.
4. ARBORIST AND/OR CONTRACTOR TO DETERMINE, FURNISH AND MAINTAIN ALL NECESSARY PROTECTION
BARRIERS, AND ENSURE SAFETY TO PEOPLE AND PROPERTY WITHIN AND OUTSIDE OF THE LIMIT OF WORK.
TB
.
5. ALL WORK TO BE DONE UNDER THE SUPERVISION OF CERTIFIED ARBORIST OR APPROVED CONTRACTOR.
ENSURE THAT TREES ARE IN GOOD HEALTH AND NOT EXPERIENCING UNUSUAL STRESS PRIOR TO
COMMENCING WORK.
6. PROTECT TREE AND TREE ROOTS THROUGHOUT CONSTRUCTION. AIRSPADE OR HAND DIG ONLY WITHIN
THE CRITICAL ROOT ZONE. DOCUMENT AND ASSESS ALL DAMAGES TO TREES AT COMMENCEMENT AND
THROUGH COMPLETION OF WORK. DAMAGES TO BE COMPENSATED BASED ON PRE-AGREED TERMS. SEE
SPECIFICATIONS.
TREE ROOT FLARE
7. ENSURE PROPER SOIL MOISTURE LEVELS THROUGH DURATION OF WORK. SOIL MUST BE NEAR FIELD
CAPACITY, BUT NOT SATURATED, AND PASS A FIELD MOISTURE TEST PRIOR TO USE OF AN AIRSPADE. HAND TREE TRUNK
WATER TREES AS NECESSARY BEFORE COMMENCEMENT OF WORK AND WITHIN 24 HOURS OF COMPLETION.
COVER BARE ROOTS AND WATER AS NECESSARY DURING WORK.
8. CERTIFIED ARBORIST TO EVALUATE THE OVERALL HEALTH OF TREES, AND TO MAKE A REPORT AND TREE DRIPLINE
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR ADDITIONAL TREE CARE BEFORE, DURING, AND AFTER THE COMPLETION OF
WORK.
CRITICAL ROOT ZONE (CRZ)
9. CALL 811 OR CONTACT THE APPROPRIATE LOCAL AGENCIES TO LOCATE EXISTING UTILITIES PRIOR TO ANY
EXCAVATION. PROTECT EXISTING UTILITIES THROUGHOUT THE CONSTRUCTION PROCESS AND REPAIR ANY
DAMAGE TO THESE AT NO COST TO THE OWNER.
TREE PROTECTION FENCE
10. SEE SPECIFICATIONS FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION. ALSO SEE MANUFACTURER'S GUIDE FOR PROPER
SAFETY AND OPERATION.
AND/OR PROTECTIVE BARRIER
PLAN
N.T.S.

TREE DRIPLINE
TREE DRIPLINE
DENSE FABRIC
WOOD STAKE
3'-4'
AXON: TYPE 2 MOVEABLE FABRIC BARRIER
5' MIN.
VAR.,
T.B.D.
EXISTING TREE
TREE PROTECTION FENCE

SOIL / ROOT AND/OR PROTECTIVE
ZONE DEPTH BARRIER, TYP.
T.B.D.
TOPSOIL 'A' HORIZON
4'-0"
PLYWOOD PANEL SOIL 'B' HORIZON

2x4 FRAME
SUBGRADE 'C' HORIZON
SECTION
N.T.S.
AXON: TYPE 1: PLYWOOD BARRIER
PROTECTIVE BARRIER SITE PREP AND PROTECTION W/ AIRSPADE

1.1 1/4" = 1'-0" 1.0 1/4" = 1'-0"
Standard Details 17
Air Tilling (Root Invigoration)
Trees and shrubs suffering from shallow soil compaction (typically due
to pedestrian use or vibrations caused by vehicular traffic,) or lacking
vigorous root growth due to poor topsoil quality (lack of organic matter,
nutrients, beneficial organisms, or aeration) are ideal candidates for air
tilling. Since most of a tree’s roots proliferate near the surface where
they have the best access to oxygen and nutrients, air tilling is excellent
at promoting robust and uniform root growth. If it’s necessary to affect
soil to a depth greater than 6-8 inches (15-20 cm), then it’s possible
to combine air tilling with other methods such as radial trenching or
vertical mulching.
While the tree health benefits of air tilling alone (decompaction and
aeration) are significant, this method is often used for soil augmentation
as well. Air tilling is a preferred method to make organic topsoil
amendments, including nutrients and beneficial organisms, due to the
uniformity of treatment. Often referred to in the industry as root
invigoration, this type of soil enhancement has been proven to increase
root development and lead to overall improvements in tree health.
As with all tree health-care applications, one size does not fit all.
Collaboration between the landscape architect and certified arborist, as
well as other professionals such as soil scientists, is vital to determine
the best course of action.
above: A trained operator
Air tilling is typically applied around tree trunks in a radius ranging using an AirSpade to till the
from five feet to near or well beyond the dripline. The larger the area, root zone of a large canopy.
Air tilling is useful for arborists
generally, the more effective the treatment. The process starts with to investigate tree soil and
the removal of any turf or mulch within the specified treatment area. root conditions, as well as for
The soil is then tilled using an AirSpade. The operator can work in extensive tree root health-
circular or linear patterns, moving the AirSpade at one to two feet care applications.
(0.3- 0.6 m) per second until the soil is visibly loosened. Several passes below: After air tilling, specified
may be required if the soil is heavily or deeply compacted. The tool is soil augmentation (such as the
held vertically, directing the airflow straight down. If the tip of the tool organic leaf compost shown
is kept beneath the soil surface, noise can be greatly reduced. After in this photo) is spread evenly
over the loosened soil. The
the initial tilling, the specified soil amendments can be applied evenly soil is then blended using an
over the decompacted soil. The amendment is then blended into existing AirSpade in the same manner
soil using an AirSpade in the same way and to the same depth that as the initial tilling.
the soil was originally tilled. Finally, organic mulch (often wood chips
are preferable) is applied to the surface in a layer 2-4 inches (5-10
cm) thick. After air tilling, continued monitoring and irrigation may be
required since the soil is very porous and can dry out quickly.

NOTES:
1. PROPOSED DEPTH OF AERATION AND OPTIONAL SOIL AMENDMENTS TO BE DETERMINED BY LANDSCAPE
ARCHITECT, CERTIFIED ARBORIST, AND SOIL SCIENTIST BASED ON INITIAL SITE INVESTIGATION AND BASED
ON INDIVIDUAL SITE CONDITIONS AND TREE HEALTH CARE NEEDS.
2. ALL TURF WITHIN AREA TO BE AIR-SPADED SHOULD BE REMOVED IN ADVANCE USING AN HERBICIDAL
TREATMENT. USE AIRSPADE TO BARE-ROOT IMPACTED PLANTINGS DURING SOIL AERATION. STOCKPILE,
PROTECT, AND WATER PLANTS AS NECESSARY, AND ENSURE PROPER REPLANTING OR REPLACEMENT AT
COMPLETION OF WORK.
3. ALL WORK TO BE DONE UNDER THE SUPERVISION OF CERTIFIED ARBORIST OR APPROVED CONTRACTOR.
ENSURE THAT TREES ARE IN GOOD HEALTH AND NOT EXPERIENCING UNUSUAL STRESS PRIOR TO
COMMENCING WORK.
4. PROTECT TREE AND TREE ROOTS THROUGHOUT CONSTRUCTION. AIRSPADE OR HAND DIG ONLY WITHIN
THE CRITICAL ROOT ZONE. DOCUMENT AND ASSESS ALL DAMAGES TO TREES AT COMMENCEMENT AND
THROUGH COMPLETION OF WORK. DAMAGES TO BE COMPENSATED BASED ON PRE-AGREED TERMS. SEE
SPECIFICATIONS.
5. ENSURE PROPER SOIL MOISTURE LEVELS THROUGH DURATION OF WORK. SOIL MUST BE NEAR FIELD
CAPACITY, BUT NOT SATURATED, AND PASS A FIELD MOISTURE TEST PRIOR TO USE OF AN AIRSPADE. HAND
WATER TREES AS NECESSARY BEFORE COMMENCEMENT OF WORK AND WITHIN 24 HOURS OF COMPLETION.
COVER BARE ROOTS AND WATER AS NECESSARY DURING WORK.
6. ARBORIST TO EVALUATE THE OVERALL HEALTH OF TREES, AND TO MAKE A REPORT AND
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR ADDITIONAL TREE CARE BEFORE, DURING, AND AFTER THE COMPLETION OF WORK.
7. CALL 811 OR CONTACT THE APPROPRIATE LOCAL AGENCIES TO LOCATE EXISTING UTILITIES PRIOR TO ANY
EXCAVATION. PROTECT EXISTING UTILITIES THROUGHOUT THE CONSTRUCTION PROCESS AND REPAIR ANY
DAMAGE TO THESE AT NO COST TO THE OWNER.
8. SEE SPECIFICATIONS FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION. ALSO SEE MANUFACTURER'S GUIDE FOR PROPER
SAFETY AND OPERATION.
TO BE DETERMINED MAINTAIN PROPER GRADE

6"- 8" OR AS SPECIFIED, 5' TO 1.5x DRIPLINE AT ROOT FLARE
OR TO FULL DEPTH OR GREATER AIR TILL EXISTING SOIL W/ AIRSPADE TO
OF COMPACTION SPECIFIED DEPTH; PRUNE CROSSING OR
GIRDLING ROOTS AS NECESSARY; APPLY
SPECIFIED SOIL AMENDMENTS OVER TILLED
SOIL AND THEN BLEND W/ AIRSPADE
EXISTING TOPSOIL 'A' HORIZON
TREE ROOTS; ROOT PRUNE AS REQUIRED,

AVOID DAMAGING ANY ROOTS >21"Ø
EXISTING SOIL 'B' HORIZON
EXISTING SUBGRADE 'C' HORIZON
SECTION
AIR TILLING W/ AIRSPADE

2 1/4" = 1'-0"
Standard Details 19
Radial Trenching
Radial trenching with AirSpade is done to modify soil composition, several years to make more extensive improvements to a tree’s soil.
improve aeration, and encourage root growth to moderate depths
(typically 10”-12” or more), and is especially effective when trees have Radial trenching is preferably done throughout the dripline or beyond.
highly stratified or shallow depth of viable soil or anaerobic conditions. Once the removal of turf and plant material is complete and the trench
Additionally, this application can be useful in planting areas where pattern is laid out (it may be helpful to paint guides on the ground), the
minimal disturbance is desired. operator can begin excavation. The operator will continuously move the
AirSpade while holding the tool at a 30° to 45° angle to achieve the
Radial trenching is shown to encourage deep root growth far reaching specified depth and working side to side to control the trench width.
from the trunk and between structural root leaders. An appropriate While digging a trench, plywood sheets are recommended to cover
soil augmentation strategy is vital to each individual project. Because adjacent trenches to prevent refilling. The soil can then be collected to
radial trenching is not as uniform as air tilling for soil augmentation, be replaced or amended, or it may be augmented in place. An AirSpade
it can produce undesirable concentrations of nutrients if not properly can be used in the soil replacement process to help blend the new and
considered. It’s therefore important to carefully select amendments existing soil, and to fill pockets around tree roots.
that are compatible with existing soils, and it can be beneficial to
perform air tilling in combination with radial trenching. For example, it Linear trenching is a variation of radial trenching in which an area
may be preferable to augment soil within radial trenches with a higher is trenched in parallel rows rather than in a radial pattern. This is
percentage of porous inorganic materials (such as sand) to improve useful for working in planted beds or in areas with trees planted
aeration and to then amend the top soil with a higher percentage of closely together. Another technique similar to radial trenching is called
organic nutrients using the more uniform air tilling (or root invigoration) root trenching, in which select primary root leaders are deliberately
procedure. Alternatively, established trees that are struggling to uncovered rather than avoided. Root trenching is often used to train
survive in poor soils may benefit from a long-term strategy in which roots deep into the soil, under a paved surface, and into adjacent
radial trenching is performed several times and over the course of planting soils or to install a root barrier.
Radial trenching was combined with root collar excavation Radial trenching with an AirSpade encourages root growth Once air-spaded, radial trenches can be filled with new or
around this street tree to prune girdling roots and by breaking through compacted and highly stratified soil augmented soil.
encourage deeper root growth. layers.

NOTES:
1. SPACING, WIDTH AND DEPTH OF RADIAL TRENCHING TO BE DETERMINED BY L.A. AND/OR
CERTIFIED ARBORIST BASED ON INITIAL SITE INVESTIGATION. SPECIFIED TRENCHING AND
X.
SOIL AUGMENTATION SHOULD BE BASED ON INDIVIDUAL SITE CONDITIONS AND TREE
TRENCH W/ AIRSPADE, TYP.
MA
HEALTH CARE NEEDS. ACTUAL LOCATION OF TRENCHING MAY BE ADJUSTED SLIGHTLY
BASED ON FIELD CONDITIONS. TRENCHES SHOULD OCCUR BETWEEN ROOTS AND AVOID
10'
FOLLOWING PRIMARY LEADERS.
2. ALL WORK TO BE DONE UNDER THE SUPERVISION OF CERTIFIED ARBORIST OR

APPROVED CONTRACTOR. ENSURE THAT TREES ARE IN GOOD HEALTH AND NOT
EXPERIENCING UNUSUAL STRESS PRIOR TO COMMENCING WORK.
3. PROTECT TREE AND TREE ROOTS THROUGHOUT CONSTRUCTION. AIRSPADE OR HAND

DIG ONLY WITHIN THE CRITICAL ROOT ZONE. DOCUMENT AND ASSESS ALL DAMAGES TO
TREE TRUNK
45.
TREES AT COMMENCEMENT AND THROUGH COMPLETION OF WORK. DAMAGES TO BE
COMPENSATED BASED ON PRE-AGREED TERMS. SEE SPECIFICATIONS.
0°
TREE DRIPLINE OR
4. ENSURE PROPER SOIL MOISTURE LEVELS THROUGH DURATION OF WORK. SOIL MUST BE
NEAR FIELD CAPACITY, BUT NOT SATURATED, AND PASS A FIELD MOISTURE TEST PRIOR TO CRITICAL ROOT ZONE
USE OF AN AIRSPADE. HAND WATER TREES AS NECESSARY BEFORE COMMENCEMENT OF
WORK AND WITHIN 24 HOURS OF COMPLETION. COVER BARE ROOTS AND WATER AS
NECESSARY DURING WORK.
1x TO 1.5x DRIPLINE
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR ADDITIONAL TREE CARE BEFORE, DURING, AND AFTER THE AS SPECIFIED
COMPLETION OF WORK. PLAN - DRIPLINE <30' Ø
6 CALL 811 OR CONTACT THE APPROPRIATE LOCAL AGENCIES TO LOCATE EXISTING N.T.S.
UTILITIES PRIOR TO ANY EXCAVATION. PROTECT EXISTING UTILITIES THROUGHOUT THE
CONSTRUCTION PROCESS AND REPAIR ANY DAMAGE TO THESE AT NO COST TO THE
OWNER.
7. SEE SPECIFICATIONS FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION. ALSO SEE MANUFACTURER'S 10' MAX.
GUIDE FOR PROPER SAFETY AND OPERATION.
TRENCH W/ AIRSPADE, TYP.
10' MAX.
±60.0°
TREE TRUNK
TREE DRIPLINE OR
±30.0° CRITICAL ROOT ZONE
1x TO 1.5x DRIPLINE
PLAN - DRIPLINE >30' Ø AS SPECIFIED
N.T.S.
EXISTING TREE ROOTS, TYP.

EXISTING TOPSOIL 'A' HORIZON
TRENCH W/ AIRSPADE, AVOID MAJOR ROOT
LEADERS, REMOVE EXISTING SOIL AND REPLACE
4" TYP.
WITH SPECIFIED SOIL OR BLENDED
SOIL AUGMENTATION, TYP.
VAR.
SOIL 'B' HORIZON

45° OR AS
EXISTING SUBGRADE 'C' HORIZON
VAR.
SPECIFIED, TYP.
SEE PLAN DIAGRAMS
10"-12" OR AS
SPECIFIED, TYP.
AXONOMETRIC
RADIAL TRENCHING W/ AIRSPADE

3 1/4" = 1'-0"
Standard Details 21
Vertical Mulching
Vertical mulching with AirSpade is done to de-compact and augment
soil deep into the tree root zone. This application is especially useful in
areas with poor drainage, with shallow or impervious soils, or shared
by perennial or ground-cover plantings, where minimal disturbance is
desired.
Aeration and soil amendments from vertical mulching can encourage

roots to grow deep into the soil profile, thereby improving the tree’s
stability and volume of viable growing medium. Because vertical mulching
affects the deepest soil profile, it is recommended for sites with shallow
soil depth, hard-pan, anaerobic conditions, or other types of poor
growing soils.
An appropriate soil augmentation strategy is vital and should be

developed on a case-by-case basis. Vertical mulching can produce
undesirable concentrations, or hotspots, of nutrients or organic matter,
which can counter healthy, uniform root growth. For this reason, it’s
advisable to use amendments that are compatible or blended with
existing soils. For more extensive results, it is possible to perform
vertical mulching over the course of several growing seasons.
Like other root zone soil treatments, vertical mulching is preferably

done throughout the trees dripline or beyond. Once the layout, target
depth, and size of holes has been determined, the operator can proceed
with air-spading. Positioning the AirSpade perpendicular to the ground
with the nozzle near the surface, the operator depresses the trigger
and slowly pushes the tool into the soil. When resistance is met, the
operator slowly withdraws the tool, clears the hole of loosened soil, top and middle: Vertical
and then reinserts. Excavated soil can be collected to be removed or cores being excavated by an
augmented before the bore holes are refilled. arborist.
bottom: Large campus

trees are good candidates
for vertical mulching, where
decades of pedestrian use
causes deep soil compaction.
The procedure has been shown
to be effective for soil and root
zone invigoration and can help
stabilize overall tree health by
encouraging deep root growth
by boosting soil ecology
through improved aeration
and nutrients.

NOTES:
1. DEPTH AND SPACING OF BORE HOLES TO BE DETERMINED BY LANDSCAPE
ARCHITECT AND/OR CERTIFIED ARBORIST BASED ON INITIAL SITE
INVESTIGATION. SPECIFIED BORE HOLE DEPTH MAY RANGE FROM 18" TO 36"
AND SHOULD BE SPECIFIED BASED ON INDIVIDUAL SITE CONDITIONS AND TREE
HEALTH CARE NEEDS.
2 USE AIRSPADE TO BARE-ROOT IMPACTED PLANTINGS DURING SOIL AERATION.

STOCKPILE, PROTECT, AND WATER PLANTS AS NECESSARY, AND ENSURE
PROPER REPLANTING OR REPLACEMENT AT COMPLETION OF WORK.
BORE HOLE W/ AIRSPADE, FILL
HOLE W/ APPROVED SOIL
3. ALL WORK TO BE DONE UNDER THE SUPERVISION OF CERTIFIED ARBORIST
OR APPROVED CONTRACTOR. ENSURE THAT TREES ARE IN GOOD HEALTH AND
AUGMENTATION, SEE SPEC., TYP.
NOT EXPERIENCING UNUSUAL STRESS PRIOR TO COMMENCING WORK.
4. PROTECT TREE AND TREE ROOTS THROUGHOUT CONSTRUCTION. AIRSPADE

OR HAND DIG ONLY WITHIN THE CRITICAL ROOT ZONE. DOCUMENT AND ASSESS
ALL DAMAGES TO TREES AT COMMENCEMENT AND THROUGH COMPLETION OF
TREE ROOTS; ROOT
WORK. DAMAGES TO BE COMPENSATED BASED ON PRE-AGREED TERMS. SEE PRUNE AS REQUIRED,
SPECIFICATIONS.
AVOID DAMAGING ROOTS >21"Ø
5. ENSURE PROPER SOIL MOISTURE LEVELS THROUGH DURATION OF WORK.
SOIL MUST BE NEAR FIELD CAPACITY, BUT NOT SATURATED, AND PASS A FIELD
MOISTURE TEST PRIOR TO USE OF AN AIRSPADE. HAND WATER TREES AS 24" O.C., OR AS SPECIFIED, TYP.
NECESSARY BEFORE COMMENCEMENT OF WORK AND WITHIN 24 HOURS OF
COMPLETION. COVER BARE ROOTS AND WATER AS NECESSARY DURING WORK.
6. ARBORIST TO EVALUATE THE OVERALL HEALTH OF TREES, AND TO MAKE A

REPORT AND RECOMMENDATIONS FOR ADDITIONAL TREE CARE BEFORE,
DURING, AND AFTER THE COMPLETION OF WORK.
7. CALL 811 OR CONTACT THE APPROPRIATE LOCAL AGENCIES TO LOCATE

TREE ROOT FLARE
EXISTING UTILITIES PRIOR TO ANY EXCAVATION. PROTECT EXISTING UTILITIES TREE TRUNK
THROUGHOUT THE CONSTRUCTION PROCESS AND REPAIR ANY DAMAGE TO
THESE AT NO COST TO THE OWNER. 1' MIN.
8. SEE SPECIFICATIONS FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION. ALSO SEE
MANUFACTURER'S GUIDE FOR PROPER SAFETY AND OPERATION.
TREE DRIPLINE OR
CRITICAL ROOT ZONE
PLAN
1x TO 1.5x DRIPLINE, AS SPECIFIED
1'-0" MIN.
24" O.C., OR AS
SPECIFIED, TYP.
3"-6" TYP.
1x TO 1.5x DRIPLINE
18"-24" OR AS
SPECIFIED
TOPSOIL 'A' HORIZON

BORE HOLE W/ AIRSPADE, FILL HOLE
W/ APPROVED SOIL AUGMENTATION,
SEE SPEC.
AVOID DAMAGING ROOTS
W/ BORINGS, TYP.
SOIL 'B' HORIZON
SECTION
VERTICAL MULCHING W/ AIRSPADE
4 1/4" = 1'-0"
Standard Details 23
Root Collar Excavation
Trees commonly suffer when the grade is set too high against their root
flare or root collar. This can occur when trees are planted at the wrong
elevation or when trees subside due to improper compaction below the
root ball when they are planted. Alternatively, root collars can be buried
over time due to the accumulation of mulch or soil around the tree.
Whatever the cause, harm to the tree from grade set above the root top: This young tree was planted
collar can be long lasting and should be remediated through root collar several inches too low and shows
excavation (RCX) with an AirSpade. Symptoms of this condition include significant rot to the bark at
the base of the trunk. (Images
rot or infection of bark at the base of the trunk, growth of roots that
courtesy of Guardair Corporation.)
are too high relative to the natural root flare, and girdling roots, which
constrict the root flare and tree trunk. Girdling can also occur on urban middle: Girdling roots can
sites, where roots have limited room to grow or have encountered strangle a tree’s water and
nutrient flow, severely inhibiting
compacted or anaerobic soil conditions, causing roots to heave around
tree health and survival, and is
the collar. Use of an AirSpade allows tree root collars and girdling roots frequently caused by improper
to be excavated with minimal damage to the tree. Once uncovered, a planting.
certified arborist can easily identify roots that need to be removed or
bottom: Use of an AirSpade is
trained.
the fastest and safest method
to excavate a tree’s natural root
RCX often impacts a relatively small area of disturbance around the collar. The entangled roots in this
root flare. If grade is being removed, the limit of disturbance must photo are characteristic of roots
pushing up and doubling back to
extend far enough to allow appropriate drainage away from the tree.
reach the more arable soil near
Once turf and other plant material are removed from the work area, the surface.
the arborist can begin excavation, holding the AirSpade at a 45° angle,
continuously working the tool back and forth at 1 to 2 feet per second,
until the natural root flare is exposed. The arborist can then perform
root pruning, removing any roots that are wrapping the tree or have
grown too high in elevation. Sometimes it’s possible to excavate under
roots that are grown too high, and train them down into the new
finished grade. Soil is then returned to the excavated roots and grade
is re-established at the appropriate elevation. RCX is not typically
considered a method for soil augmentation; however, like other AirSpade
applications, it can be combined with other techniques depending on the
project goals and tree health-care needs. Finally, organic mulch (often
wood chips are preferable) is applied to the surface in a layer 2-4 inches
(5-10 cm) thick.

NOTES:
1. PROPOSED FINISHED GRADE TO BE DETERMINED BY LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT EXISTING GRADE EXISTING GRADE
AND/OR CERTIFIED ARBORIST BASED ON INITIAL SITE INVESTIGATION AND BASED ON
INDIVIDUAL SITE CONDITIONS AND TREE HEALTH CARE NEEDS.
TO BE LOWERED, TO BE REMOVED
REMOVE GRADE TO
2. ROOT PRUNING TO BE DONE BY HAND ONLY AND BY CERTIFIED ARBORIST.
ENSURE PROPER
3. ALL WORK TO BE DONE UNDER THE SUPERVISION OF CERTIFIED ARBORIST OR DRAINAGE AT TREE
APPROVED CONTRACTOR. ENSURE THAT TREES ARE IN GOOD HEALTH AND NOT
EXPERIENCING UNUSUAL STRESS PRIOR TO COMMENCING WORK.
ROOT COLLAR BASE ROOT COLLAR BASE
4. PROTECT TREE AND TREE ROOTS THROUGHOUT CONSTRUCTION. AIRSPADE OR
HAND DIG ONLY WITHIN THE CRITICAL ROOT ZONE. DOCUMENT AND ASSESS ALL
DAMAGES TO TREES AT COMMENCEMENT AND THROUGH COMPLETION OF WORK.
DAMAGES TO BE COMPENSATED BASED ON PRE-AGREED TERMS. SEE
SPECIFICATIONS.
PITCH PITCH PITCH
3. ENSURE PROPER SOIL MOISTURE LEVELS THROUGH DURATION OF WORK. SOIL
FG FG
MUST BE NEAR FIELD CAPACITY, BUT NOT SATURATED, AND PASS A FIELD MOISTURE
TEST PRIOR TO USE OF AN AIRSPADE. HAND WATER TREES AS NECESSARY BEFORE
COMMENCEMENT OF WORK AND WITHIN 24 HOURS OF COMPLETION. COVER BARE
ROOTS AND WATER AS NECESSARY DURING WORK.
5. ARBORIST TO EVALUATE THE OVERALL HEALTH OF TREES, AND TO MAKE A REPORT

AND RECOMMENDATIONS FOR ADDITIONAL TREE CARE BEFORE, DURING, AND AFTER
THE COMPLETION OF WORK.
6. CALL 811 OR CONTACT THE APPROPRIATE LOCAL AGENCIES TO LOCATE

EXISTING UTILITIES PRIOR TO ANY EXCAVATION. PROTECT EXISTING UTILITIES
THROUGHOUT THE CONSTRUCTION PROCESS AND REPAIR ANY DAMAGE TO THESE AT
LIMIT OF DISTURBANCE LIMIT OF DISTURBANCE
NO COST TO THE OWNER.
7. SEE SPECIFICATIONS FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION. ALSO SEE MANUFACTURER'S CONDITION 1: TREE SET TOO LOW CONDITION 2: GRADE BUILT UP AT TREE
GUIDE FOR PROPER SAFETY AND OPERATION.
SCALE: 41" = 1'-0" SCALE: 41" = 1'-0"
EXISTING GRADE SET

TOO HIGH ABOVE
BASE OF NATURAL
ROOT COLLAR / FLARE
GIRDLING ROOTS FINISHED GRADE LOWERED

TO BE REMOVED TO BASE OF ROOT
COLLAR, REMOVE HIGH
ROOTS GROWN TOO VAR. OR GIRDLING ROOTS;
HIGH TO BE EXCAVATED; FG SEE CONDITION 1-2
LOWER OR REMOVE
AS NECESSARY TREE ROOTS; LOWER ROOTS
BELOW FINISHED GRADE,
ROOT PRUNE AS NECESSARY
BY CERTIFIED ARBORIST
SOIL 'B' HORIZON
BEFORE AFTER
ROOT COLLAR EXCAVATION W/ AIRSPADE

5 1/2" = 1'-0"
Standard Details 25
Root Pruning
Construction or maintenance work that makes intrusions into a tree’s Of course, it is preferable to remove as little of a tree’s root system
root zone will benefit from use of an AirSpade. Air-spading is safe to as possible, and site planning of utilities or new structures should try
the tree’s roots and a highly efficient method to perform exploratory to minimize impacts to established trees whenever possible. If large
excavation to locate existing roots and utilities. Almost any site work roots or a substantial percentage of a tree’s roots need to be removed,
operations – including the building of foundations, pavements, drainage then the tree will be under significant stress and may require special
infrastructure, and utilities – present ideal opportunities for air-spading attention through an extended recovery period.
and root pruning.
Root pruning for construction begins with preliminary site layout
Proper root pruning will encourage future growth and minimize negative exploratory excavation by the arborist. Soil should be stockpiled and
impacts to structures or utilities. Once the existing roots have been replaced as soon as possible to avoid undue stress to the tree. The
excavated, a certified arborist can easily determine the best places to arborist may advise the best location for utility placement to benefit the
make clean cuts using a hand pruner. tree as well as the ongoing maintenance of the utilities. The arborist
may excavate as much as necessary to properly locate and stagger
In all cases, an arborist should oversee care for the tree before, during, pruning cuts and to allow roots to be trained around or away from the
and after construction. In this type of application, the tree’s excavated new construction. The arborist should provide oversight throughout
root zone may often remain exposed for several days or more. For this construction to ensure tree protection and proper tree care and
reason, it is important to protect and cover roots (for example with soil, watering.
mulch, or burlap cloth) and to provide supplemental water as required.
At the Radcliffe Institute, the foundation for a new path Trenches are being located around this existing tree to To install this area-way at M.I.T. required diligent tree
was excavated using an AirSpade. Irrigation lines were accommodate an electrical conduit. protection, and intensive excavation using an AirSpade and
snaked through the exposed roots, and minimal root root pruning by a trained arborist.
pruning was completed before installing a gravel root (Image courtesy of SSA.)
barrier and the top course of stone dust pavement.
(Image courtesy of SSA.)

NOTES:
1. HAND PRUNE ROOTS ONLY BY CERTIFIED ARBORIST. DO NOT SHEAR ROOTS.
2. COVER ROOTS AND PROVIDE SUPPLEMENTAL WATER AS NECESSARY. IF LARGE ROOTS OR A LARGE
PERCENTAGE OF ROOTS ARE REMOVED, EXTENDED RECOVERY PERIOD MAY BE NECESSARY.
6"-12" MIN. TO
3. ALL WORK TO BE DONE UNDER THE SUPERVISION OF CERTIFIED ARBORIST OR APPROVED PRIMARY ROOTS
CONTRACTOR. ENSURE THAT TREES ARE IN GOOD HEALTH AND NOT EXPERIENCING UNUSUAL STRESS
PRIOR TO COMMENCING WORK.
4. PROTECT TREE AND TREE ROOTS THROUGHOUT CONSTRUCTION. AIRSPADE OR HAND DIG ONLY
WITHIN THE CRITICAL ROOT ZONE. DOCUMENT AND ASSESS ALL DAMAGES TO TREES AT
COMMENCEMENT AND THROUGH COMPLETION OF WORK. DAMAGES TO BE COMPENSATED BASED ON
PRE-AGREED TERMS. SEE SPECIFICATIONS. TRAIN AWAY, TYP.
3. ENSURE PROPER SOIL MOISTURE LEVELS THROUGH DURATION OF WORK. SOIL MUST BE NEAR
FIELD CAPACITY, BUT NOT SATURATED, AND PASS A FIELD MOISTURE TEST PRIOR TO USE OF AN AIR
SPADE. HAND WATER TREES AS NECESSARY BEFORE COMMENCEMENT OF WORK AND WITHIN 24 PRUNED ROOT, MAKE CUTS BY HAND ONLY,
HOURS OF COMPLETION. COVER BARE ROOTS AND WATER AS NECESSARY DURING WORK.
UTILIZE DIRECTIONAL ROOT PRUNING
5. ARBORIST TO EVALUATE THE OVERALL HEALTH OF TREES, AND TO MAKE A REPORT AND TECHNIQUES AND/OR TRAIN ROOTS FROM
WORK.
ADJACENT STRUCTURES OR UTILITIES,
CUT OUTSIDE ROOT BRANCH UNIONS, TYP.
6. CALL 811 OR CONTACT THE APPROPRIATE LOCAL AGENCIES TO LOCATE EXISTING UTILITIES
PRIOR TO ANY EXCAVATION. PROTECT EXISTING UTILITIES THROUGHOUT THE CONSTRUCTION
PROCESS AND REPAIR ANY DAMAGE TO THESE AT NO COST TO THE OWNER.
7. SEE SPECIFICATIONS FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION. ALSO SEE MANUFACTURER'S GUIDE FOR
PROPER SAFETY AND OPERATION.
EXISTING ROOT SYSTEM
TO BE REMOVED, TYP.
FUTURE ROOT GROWTH, TYP.
PROPOSED EXCAVATION OR
EXISTING STRUCTURE/UTILITY, TYP.
TRAIN AWAY, TYP.
PLAN
SCALE: 41" = 1'-0"
TO BE DETERMINED
BY ARBORIST
PRUNED ROOT, MAKE CUTS BY HAND ONLY,

UTILIZE DIRECTIONAL ROOT PRUNING
TECHNIQUES AND/OR TRAIN ROOTS FROM
ADJACENT STRUCTURES OR UTILITIES
DISTURBED SOIL ZONE TO BE REPLACED; STOCKPILE

SOIL DURING CONSTRUCTION, COVER BARE ROOTS
AND PROVIDE SUPPLIMENTAL WATER AS NEEDED
SINKER ROOTS; CUT OUTSIDE ROOT
BRANCH UNIONS, TYP.
TRAIN
DOWN
EXISTING ROOT SYSTEM
TO BE REMOVED, TYP.
SECTION
6"-12" MIN. TO
PRIMARY ROOTS EXCAVATION ZONE
ROOT PRUNING W/ AIRSPADE

6 1/2" = 1'-0"
Standard Details 27
Bare Rooting and Transplanting
Bare rooting is a procedure used to relocate or remove soil around Bare rooting trees and large shrubs to transplant can require root
existing trees. Use of an AirSpade for bare rooting is the best way pruning if the root mass is too large to transplant. If possible,
to minimize damage to the tree’s root system and the most efficient incremental root pruning can be done in months or years preceding
technique available. transplanting to help reduce stress to the tree. Using an AirSpade,
it’s possible to remove almost all the soil from the tree root system or
Bare rooting with an AirSpade can also be applied to perennial, shrub, to leave excess soil to transplant with the tree. Once the root zone is
and groundcover plantings. This is a preferred method of transplanting excavated, the arborist can prune the root mass to the desired length.
plant material because of its efficiency and ability to preserve fine root It is critical to keep bare roots protected from the sun and hydrated,
systems. Furthermore, bare rooting small plants is often required and to minimize the time between excavation and transplanting.
during more extensive root zone treatments (such as aeration and de-
compaction) or other site work applications. Another application of growing popularity involves bare rooting of
nursery stock prior to planting. Air-spading containerized plants or
The oversight of a certified arborist is critical during bare rooting. While ball-and-burlap trees is the best technique to break up the root ball for
use of an AirSpade can significantly reduce trauma to the tree, it is new plantings. With any new planting, it is critical to break up the root
important to monitor the tree’s health and care before, during, and ball to encourage root growth out into adjacent soils and to help blend
after the procedure. Supplemental watering is typically necessary and dissimilar soils. While this adds some cost to planting, air-spading plants
should be provided with direction and continued monitoring from the for new installation is becoming recognized as an increasingly viable
arborist. method.
This tree at Williams College was bare rooted using Bare rooting allows large, established trees to be relocated Bare rooting can allow for partial or complete soil replace-
an AirSpade and transplanted as part of a new quad with minimal trauma. Unlike ball-and-burlap or container- ment and facilitate new site construction and tree longevity.
construction project. (Image courtesy of SSA.) grown plants, bare rooted plant material maintains a
nearly complete,and well-formed root system.

NOTES:
1. HAND PRUNE ROOTS ONLY BY CERTIFIED ARBORIST. DO NOT SHEAR ROOTS.
2. COVER BARE ROOTS AND PROVIDE SUPPLEMENTAL WATER AS NECESSARY. IF LARGE

ROOTS OR A LARGE PERCENTAGE OF ROOTS ARE REMOVED, EXTENDED RECOVERY PERIOD
MAY BE NECESSARY.
3. ALL WORK TO BE DONE UNDER THE SUPERVISION OF CERTIFIED ARBORIST OR APPROVED PRIMARY ROOT, TYP.
CONTRACTOR. ENSURE THAT TREES ARE IN GOOD HEALTH AND NOT EXPERIENCING
UNUSUAL STRESS PRIOR TO COMMENCING WORK.
4. PROTECT TREE AND TREE ROOTS THROUGHOUT CONSTRUCTION. AIRSPADE OR HAND

TRANSPLANT ROOT ZONE
DIG ONLY WITHIN THE CRITICAL ROOT ZONE. DOCUMENT AND ASSESS ALL DAMAGES TO
TREES AT COMMENCEMENT AND THROUGH COMPLETION OF WORK. DAMAGES TO BE
COMPENSATED BASED ON PRE-AGREED TERMS. SEE SPECIFICATIONS.
TREE TRUNK
5. ENSURE PROPER SOIL MOISTURE LEVELS THROUGH DURATION OF WORK. SOIL MUST
BE NEAR FIELD CAPACITY, BUT NOT SATURATED, AND PASS A FIELD MOISTURE TEST PRIOR
TO USE OF AN AIRSPADE. HAND WATER TREES AS NECESSARY BEFORE COMMENCEMENT
OF WORK AND WITHIN 24 HOURS OF COMPLETION. COVER BARE ROOTS AND WATER AS
ROOT PRUNING LOCATION
NECESSARY DURING WORK.
6. ARBORIST TO EVALUATE THE OVERALL HEALTH OF TREES, AND TO MAKE A REPORT AND PERIMETER TRENCH ZONE,
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR ADDITIONAL TREE CARE BEFORE, DURING, AND AFTER THE EXCAVATE AND PERFORM
COMPLETION OF WORK.
ROOT PRUNING PRIOR
7. CALL 811 OR CONTACT THE APPROPRIATE LOCAL AGENCIES TO LOCATE EXISTING TO BARE ROOTING WITHIN
UTILITIES PRIOR TO ANY EXCAVATION. PROTECT EXISTING UTILITIES THROUGHOUT THE
CONSTRUCTION PROCESS AND REPAIR ANY DAMAGE TO THESE AT NO COST TO THE OWNER. TRANSPLANT ROOT ZONE
PLAN
8. SEE SPECIFICATIONS FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION. ALSO SEE MANUFACTURER'S GUIDE
FOR PROPER SAFETY AND OPERATION. N.T.S. TO BE DETERMINED BY L.A.
AND CERTIFIED ARBORIST
PROTECTIVE WRAPPING;
ATTACH ROOT TIES AT
LOWER LIMBS, TYP.
ROOT TIES, BIO-DEGRADABLE

TWINE OR CHORD, TYP.
EXCAVATED ROOT SYSTEM, ROOT

PRUNE UPON RE-PLANTING, REMOVE
NECESSARY QUANTITY OF SOIL TO
ALLOW FOR TRANSPORT; COVER BARE
ROOTS W/ SEAWEED MIXTURE, MULCH,
SOIL, OR BURLAP; PROVIDE
SUPPLEMENTAL WATER AS NECESSARY
TYPICALLY 24"-36"
ROOT DEPTH
OR GREATER
PERIMETER TRENCH ZONE, EXCAVATE AND

PERFORM ROOT PRUNING PRIOR TO BARE-
ROOTING WITHIN TRANSPLANT ROOT ZONE
TRANSPLANT ROOT ZONE; STOCKPILE
REMOVED TOPSOIL AND SUBSOIL
TO BE USED UPON RE-PLANTING;
SEE SPECS FOR SOIL AUGMENTATION
SECTION
TO BE DETERMINED BY L.A.
AND CERTIFIED ARBORIST
BARE ROOTING & TRANSPLANTING W/ AIRSPADE

7 1/4" = 1'-0"
Standard Details 29
Urban Tree Soil Replacement
Soil science and planting technologies for urban trees have undergone volume, or where pavement is proposed to be added or replaced within
tremendous advancement in the last several years. For example, an existing root zone. Similarly, this may be applied to trees planted in
engineered structural soils can resist compaction from traffic or bear high-use lawn areas (for example within parks or campus landscapes,)
the weight of pavement or structures while also offering aeration and where soil replacement is desired to improve lawn durability and health.
nutrients deep into the soil profile. Due to the overwhelming benefits of
these planting systems, it may be desirable to partially replace the soil Planting infrastructure elements shown in the drawing (such as
around a tree’s root zone in an effort to enhance the tree’s health and aeration pipes, root barriers, feeding tubes, irrigation and moisture
lifespan. sensors) represent a sampling of many available technologies that can
be selected, omitted, or combined based on the tree needs and project
This application is ideal for tree plantings with root zones extending goals, and should be determined by a landscape architect.
underneath pavement and those that have poorly suited or limited soil
Installation of a new paving system for ginko street trees. At the right of the photo, an Partially bare rooted ginko street tree ready for new sand-
arborist excavates highly compacted sandy loam soil that had supported brick pavement based structural planting soil.
for over 20 years. At left, the contractor finishes installation of an engineered sand based (Images courtesy of Stephen Stimson Associates.)
structural soil, which is to bear the load of new pavement.

NOTES:
1. LIMIT DISTURBANCE OF EXISTING SOIL BASED ON EXISTING SOIL CONDITIONS AND FOUND
DISPERSION OF TREE ROOTS. ALL DIGGING AND SOIL REPLACEMENT OR AUGMENTATION TO BE DONE
UNDER THE SUPERVISION OF CERTIFIED ARBORIST.
2. ALL WORK TO BE DONE UNDER THE SUPERVISION OF CERTIFIED ARBORIST OR APPROVED

CONTRACTOR. ENSURE THAT TREES ARE IN GOOD HEALTH AND NOT EXPERIENCING UNUSUAL STRESS
PRIOR TO COMMENCING WORK.
3. PROTECT TREE AND TREE ROOTS THROUGHOUT CONSTRUCTION. AIRSPADE OR HAND DIG ONLY
WITHIN THE CRITICAL ROOT ZONE. DOCUMENT AND ASSESS ALL DAMAGES TO TREES AT
COMMENCEMENT AND THROUGH COMPLETION OF WORK. DAMAGES TO BE COMPENSATED BASED ON
PRE-AGREED TERMS. SEE SPECIFICATIONS.
4. ENSURE PROPER SOIL MOISTURE LEVELS THROUGH DURATION OF WORK. SOIL MUST BE NEAR
FIELD CAPACITY, BUT NOT SATURATED, AND PASS A FIELD MOISTURE TEST PRIOR TO USE OF AN AIR
SPADE. HAND WATER TREES AS NECESSARY BEFORE COMMENCEMENT OF WORK AND WITHIN 24
HOURS OF COMPLETION. COVER BARE ROOTS AND WATER AS NECESSARY DURING WORK.
WORK.
6. CALL 811 OR CONTACT THE APPROPRIATE LOCAL AGENCIES TO LOCATE EXISTING UTILITIES
PRIOR TO ANY EXCAVATION. PROTECT EXISTING UTILITIES THROUGHOUT THE CONSTRUCTION
PROCESS AND REPAIR ANY DAMAGE TO THESE AT NO COST TO THE OWNER.
7. SEE SPECIFICATIONS FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION. ALSO SEE MANUFACTURER'S GUIDE FOR
PROPER SAFETY AND OPERATION.
EXISTING TREE ROOTS; EXCAVATE W/

AIRSPADE, PRUNE AND LOWER
PER L.A. AS REQUIRED
PAVEMENT, PER L.A., TYP.
VARIES
CRUSHED STONE BASE / ROOT
BARRIER, PER L.A., TYP.
AERATION PIPE W/ DRIP IRRIGATION
AND FEEDING TUBE, PER L.A., TYP.
STRUCTURAL SOIL TO REPLACE

TARGET SOIL DEPTH EXISTING GRADE, PER L.A., TYP.
OR AS ALLOWED SOIL MOISTURE SENSOR, PER L.A., TYP.
PREPARED SUBGRADE, 2" MIN.

TRANSITION ZONE AT NEW SOIL, TYP.
UNDISTURBED SOIL AT BASE OF TREE,
ENSURE TREE IS PLANTED AT PROPER
ELEVATION
TREE SOIL REPLACEMENT FOR URBAN SITES

8 1/2" = 1'-0"
Standard Details 31
APPENDIX

Appendix A: Soil Amendments
Table 2. Potential uses and limitations of typical soil amendments for urban trees.
Amendment Uses Limitations
Temporary or unknown efficacy

Expensive or limited availability
Excessive amounts required
Popential N immobilization
Increase organic matter
Increase water-holding
Promote aggregation
Increase nutrients
Increase drainage
Decrease density
Decrease salinity
Modify texture
Contaminants
Decrease pH
Increase pH
Unstable
Salts
Odor
Compost1 l l l l l
Leaves 2
l l l l
Manure 2
l l l l l l
Biosolids 2
l l l l l l
Woody material 2
l l l l
Bark 2
l l l l
Biochar 2
l l l l l l l
Bio-stimulants l l l l
Compost tea l l l l
Sand l
Exp. shale/slate l
Perlite/vermic. l
Polystyrene l
Diatom. earth l
Polymer gels l
Lime l l l
Gypsum l l l l Table excerpted from ANSI A300 Support Systems Standard

Sulfur and iron l l l (Part 2), “Best Manangement Practices Soil Management for
Inorganic fert. l l l l
Urban Trees” (2014). Used with permission from the
International Society of Arboriculture (ISA).
1 Refersto any combination of organic materials (e.g., yard trimmings, feed waste, manure) that
have undergone the composting process to produce mature, stable humus that is dark
brown or black and has a soil-like consistency and an earthy smell.
2 Refersto materials in non-composted form. However, these materials may also be composted prior
to use as an amendment.
Appendix 33
Appendix B: Construction Specifications
SECTION 312317 4. Remove and break up soils around existing trees to facilitate root pruning.
5. Remove and break up soils around existing trees to locate tree roots.
6. Remove and break up soils around existing trees to accommodate proposed
SPECIALIZED ROOT ZONE AND SOIL EXCAVATION site construction.
7. Root collar (crown) excavation (RCX) to expose the lower trunk and buttress
************************************************************************************* roots of the designated trees and shrubs.
Intent of this document: In general, the intent of this specification section is to describe 8. Soil replacement for the prevention or mitigation of soil compaction, poor
the desired soil excavation, aeration, and root zone modification results achieved through drainage, soil structural issues, or new landscape construction.
the use of a compressed air-powered tool referred to as an AirSpade. The use of this 9. Root pruning.
piece of equipment is focused on managing the physical properties of the soil and root 10. Removal of all rubbish, debris, and other materials to be disposed of as a
zones to create and/or maintain favorable nutritional and soil conditions to meet an result of the work of this section.
objective.
1.02 RELATED WORK
It shall be understood that, unless otherwise indicated, the use of this tool has
already been predetermined to be the proper method to modify soil and/or root zone A. Examine Contract Documents for requirements that affect work of this
conditions in response to pre-construction on-site evaluations and previous diagnosis and Section. Other Specification Sections that directly relate to work of this
recommendations by a certified testing laboratory and/or certified arborist. Section include, but are not limited to:
Soil amendment procedures, including management of chemical and biological properties, 1. Section 015639, TEMPORARY TREE PROTECTION.
as well as overall tree care practices and maintenance in accordance with ANSI A300 2. Section 015640, TEMPORARY TREE AND SOIL PROTECTION.
(all parts), are specified elsewhere. Coordinate with work of sections listed in paragraph 3. Section 024113, SELECTIVE SITE DEMOLITION AND REMOVALS.
1.02, RELATED WORK. 4 Section 311000, SITE CLEARING.
************************************************************************************* 5. Section 311300, SELECTIVE TREE REMOVAL AND TRIMMING.
6. Section 311317, TREE PRUNING.
PART 1 GENERAL 7. Section 312300, SITE EXCAVATING, BACKFILLING, AND COMPACTING;
Excavation and backfill.
1.00 RELATED DOCUMENTS 8 Section 312500, EROSION AND SEDIMENT CONTROLS.
9. Section 329115, PLANTING SOILS.
A. Drawings and general provisions of the Contract, including General and 10.Section 329300, PLANTING.
Supplementary Conditions and Division 01 Specification Sections, apply to 11.Section 329600, TRANSPLANTING.
this Section.
1.03 REFERENCED STANDARDS
1.01 WORK INCLUDED
A. Comply with applicable requirements of the following standards. Where these
A. Provide all work equipment, labor, and supervision necessary to perform standards conflict with other specified requirements, the most restrictive
specialized root zone and soil excavation with a compressed air-powered tool requirements shall govern.
also referred to as an AirSpade, within the limits indicated on the drawings and
as specified herein. Work shall include, but not be limited, to the following: 1. American National Standards Institute (ANSI):
1. Remove and break up soils around existing trees to conduct visual inspection Z133.1 Safety Requirements for Pruning, Trimming, Repairing, Maintaining
and correction of specific plant health concerns. and Removing Trees, and for Cutting Brush.
************************************************************************************* A300 Tree Care Operations – Tree, Shrub And Other Woody Plant
Delete 2. below if diagnosis has already been performed and Contractor is conducting Maintenance - Standard Practices (Parts 2, 5, and 8).
specialized excavation as a means to administer prescribed treatments.
************************************************************************************* 2. Council of Tree and Landscape Appraisers:
2. Remove and break up soils around existing trees to conduct diagnosis of Guide for Plant Appraisal - 9th Edition
plant diseases.
3. Remove and break up soils around existing trees to facilitate application of 3. TCIA – Tree Care Industry Association, Inc. (TCIA)
blended soils or amended soils to promote root growth.

1.04 DEFINITIONS indicating the extent of soils to be air-spaded. Show all areas of proposed
staging, vehicle or equipment access, trenching, excavating, or other
A. Arborist: An individual engaged in the profession of arboriculture who, through disturbance to soils. Include:
experience, education, and related training, possesses the competence
to provide for or supervise the management of trees and other woody 1. Proposed plan will be reviewed and approval by the owner and landscape
ornamentals. architect. No work of this Section shall commence prior to approval.
B. Dripline: An imaginary line defined by the branch spread. *************************************************************************************

Delete B. below if diagnosis has already been performed and Contractor is conducting
C. Critical rootzone (CRZ): The minimum volume of roots necessary for the specialized excavation as a means to administer prescribed treatments.
maintenance of tree health and stability, typically determined by measuring the *************************************************************************************
tree diameter 4.5 ft. above grade and multiplying by 12 in., a minimum radius
of 10’ from the trunk, or at the tree’s dripline, whichever is farthest from the B. Prepare and submit a “Tree Resource Evaluation” as defined herein.
trunk, or as otherwise indicated on the drawings, or established in the field.
CRZ will be determined/established on a case by case basis by the arborist and C. Proposed methods, materials, and schedule for effecting soils and root zones,
approval by the landscape architect. in accordance with ANSI A300 (all parts), shall be submitted by certified
arborist for approval.
D. Finish grade: Elevation of finished surfaces.
D. Submit schedule of existing trees to be air-spaded.
E. Hand-digging: Careful soil excavation using hand-tools to expose roots for
inspection or to determine where mechanical excavation can be done without E. Submit a description of each type of proposed specialized root zone and soil
causing significant root damage or loss. excavation operation and the reason for and location of each type described.
Specialized root zone and soil excavation operations shall include, but not be
F. Subgrade: Surface or elevation of subgrade soil remaining after completing limited to:
excavation, or top surface of a fill or backfill immediately beneath planting soil.
1. Soil aeration and decompaction.
G. Topsoil: Soil that is present at the top layer of the existing soil profile at the 2. Radial trenching.
project site. 3. Vertical mulching.
4. Root collar excavation.
H. Loam: Soil that contains a combination of particles typically almost equal in 5. Root pruning.
parts sand, silt, and clay and including organic matter. 6. Bare rooting.
7. Soil replacement.
I. Mulch: A material placed on the soil surface composed of 100% fine-shredded 8. Transplanting.
pine bark or wood chips generated by sending tree parts through a wood 9. Root training.
chipping machine of uniform size and free from rot, leaves, twigs, debris, 10. Root trenching.
stones, or any material harmful to plant growth. No chunks 3 in. or more in size 11.Excavation or trenching required for construction or utility work in CRZ.
and thicker than 1/4 in. shall be left on site.
*************************************************************************************
J. Leaf compost: Well-composted, stable, and weed-free organic matter, pH of Root zone investigations may be necessary for a wide range of reasons, including:
5.5 to 8; moisture content 35 to 55 percent by weight; 100 percent passing Root collar excavation to identify root damage or root disease
through a 1-inch (25-mm) sieve; soluble-salt content of 2 to 5 dS/m; not Root mapping on development sites to assist in installing footings and underground
exceeding 0.5 percent inert contaminants and free of substances toxic to services:
plantings. Root pruning
Root structure analysis
K. Tree resource evaluation: A document or site plan describing the tree Root location identification in neighbor disputes
resources on the site, with information provided from an inventory or survey Risk assessment and management
including: tree species, size (DBH), location, condition, and liklihood of failure. Assessing tree stability
Delete F. below if diagnosis has already been performed and Contractor is conducting
1.05 SUBMITTALS specialized excavation as a means to administer prescribed treatments.
*************************************************************************************
A. Prepare and submit a “Specialized Root Zone and Soil Excavation Plan,”
Appendix 35
F. Conduct a Tree Root Zone Investigation and evaluate the crown/foliage rating 1.06 EXISTING SERVICES
of each tree. Submit a health assessment for each tree to undergo specialized
soil exacavation operations, prepared by a certified arborist, indicating that A. Existing structures and utilities shall be suitably protected from damage.
each tree is healthy enough to withstand the proposed AirSpade operation and
anticipated soil and/or root system disturbance. 1.07 QUALITY ASSURANCE
1. Submit digital photos documenting tree conditions and illustrating the *************************************************************************************
findings of the Tree Root Zone Investigation. Refer to Paragraph 3.05. Select A. below, first paragraph, for national certification. Second paragraph for
Commonwealth of Massachusetts only.
1.04 PROPERTY PROTECTION *************************************************************************************
A. Prevent damage to and movement, settlement, or collapse of adjacent services, A. Work of this section shall be completed by a professional ISA Certified Arborist
utilities, structures, and trees. Assume liability for such damage, movement, with a minimum five years experience who has successfully completed the
settlement, or collapse. Promptly repair damage at no cost to the owner. International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Certification Program, sponsored
by the International Society of Arboriculture, P.O. Box 3129, Champaign, IL
1.05 TREE DAMAGE PENALTIES 61826 (217) 355-9411; Email: [email protected].
************************************************************************************* A. Work of this section shall be completed by a professional Certified Arborist

Keep first Paragraph A if Section 015639 is part of Construction Documents. If not part with a minimum five years experience who has successfully completed the
of Construction Documents, then delete and keep second Paragraph A through E. Massachussetts Certified Arborist (MCA) program/examination sponsored by
************************************************************************************* the Massachusetts Arborists Association, 8-D Pleasant Street, South Natick,
MA 01760; (508) 653-3320; FAX: (508) 653-4112; E-mail: MaarbAssn@aol.
A. Refer to Section 015639, TEMPORARY TREE AND PLANT PROTECTION. com.
A. Certain specimen trees within the construction areas and in other key locations B. Arborist shall have the following minimum qualifications:
will be identified by the owner and the architect and marked with red tags.
Loss of any of these trees will result in fines assessed at $10,000 per tree. 1. Certification by:
Damage to all other trees on the property will be assessed at the rate of $200 a. TCIA -- Tree Care Industry Association, Inc. acccredited company
per inch caliper of the tree. b. ISA – International Society of Arborists
2. Meet state requirements for insurance.
1. If at any time during the operation, damage to the trunk or root bark is 3. Licenses for the application and use of pesticides if pesticide application will
noticed, the operator shall move the tool further from the root or trunk, or be required.
stop the operation. Bark damage is not acceptable and will result in fines.
C. Equipment utilized to complete the work of this Section shall be operated by
B. A fine of $1,000 will be levied against the contractor for incursion inside tree experienced technicians, trained and certifed by equipment manufacturer to
protection areas. safely and properly operate the compressed air-powered tool in accordance
with manufacturer’s Operator’s Manual and the “AirSpade Technical
C. Damages to trees, shrubs, and other vegetation will be assessed by the Applications Bulletin (2016).”
architect and owner in accordance with the fine structure prescribed in
Paragraphs A and B above. D. AirSpade operations shall not be performed in heavy rain or when soil is deemed
too wet or too dry by certified arborist.
D. Trees or roots visibly damaged will cause the owner to withold from the
contractor an assessed amount conforming to the requirements stipulated E. Tree trunks shall be suitably protected from damage by AirSpade operations
above for a period of two years. After that period, the impact of the damage to during all activities specified.
any tree will be assessed accordingly.
E. If any trees or shrubs designated to be saved are damaged and replacement is 1.08 SITE MONITORING
required, a number and diameter of trees or shrubs of the same species and
variety, as specified by the owner and architect, shall be furnished and planted A. While use of an AirSpade can significantly reduce trauma to the tree, it is
by the contractor. The total inch diameter of the replacement trees or shrubs important to monitor the tree’s health and care before, during, and after the
shall equal the diameter of the tree or shrub to be replaced. procedure. Supplemental watering is typically necessary and should be provided
with the direction and continued monitoring of a certified arborist.
B. Site monitoring shall be the responsibility of a Certifed Arborist. Any damage A. Specialized root zone and soil excavation operations shall be performed using
to existing trees shall be immediately reported to the architect. If any tree has Guardair Corporation’s AirSpade [Series 2000], a compressed air-powered
been damaged, work shall be halted and reasons for damage assessed. No work tool consisting of an ergonomic pistol grip style handle, insulated fiberglass
shall commence until contractor has submitted a plan for prevention of further barrel, and patented supersonic nozzle, manufactured by AirSpade, a Division
tree damage and plan has been approved in writing by landscape architect. of GuardAir Corporation, 47 Veterans Drive, Chicopee, MA 01022; Tel. 1-800-
482-7324; www.airspade.com, or approved equal.
1.09 PRE-CONSTRUCTION CONFERENCE
1. The compressor shall be in good working condition and exhibit no signs of
A. Pre-Construction Conference: Prior to implementing specialized root zone and excessive discharge of oil in the air stream.
soil excavation measures, conduct meeting with landscape architect, certified 2. Tool shall be equipped with a “dead-man trigger.”
arborist, [AirSpade manufacturer’s rep], and owner to verify and review the
following: A. Specialized root zone and soil excavation operations shall be performed using a
compressed air-powered tool, also referred to as an AirSpade. High-pressure
1. Project requirements for tree and soil protection measures as set out in air will come from a compressor that is matched to the design flow of the
Contract Documents. tool, producing a focused jet air stream capable of penetrating and fracturing
2. AirSpade manufacturer’s product data including application, operation, and existing soil for a fast, efficient method of excavating.
safety instructions.
3. Limits where specialized root zone and soil excavation measures shall be 1. The compressor shall be in good working condition and exhibit no signs of
implemented. excessive discharge of oil in the air stream.
4. Areas of proposed staging, vehicle or equipment access, trenching, excavating, 2. Tool shall be equipped with a “dead-man trigger.”
or other disturbance to soils.
************************************************************************************* PART 3 - EXECUTION

Delete 5 below if diagnosis has already been performed and contractor is conducting
specialized excavation as a means to administer prescribed treatments. 3.01 GENERAL
*************************************************************************************
A. The site where air-spading is to be performed shall have access restricted. Only
5. Health-care needs of individual trees, including specific site conditions, that may personnel that are involved in the operation shall be permitted within 25 feet
affect the project goals or construction implementation strategy. of the operation. A temporary screen barrier shall be set up to prevent flying
6. Tree health-care implementation strategy before, during, and after rocks and debris from leaving the immediate work area during the operation.
construction.
B. Personnel using the air tool or working in close proximity to the operation shall
************************************************************************************* wear appropriate personal protective equipment, which includes at a minimum:
Delete B below if covered in Division 01 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS.
************************************************************************************* 1. Hard hat with plastic face shield
2. Goggle-type eye protection
B. If the operation is close to a residential area, hours of operation shall be limited 3. Ear plugs
to 8:00am to 6:00pm or as otherwise required by governing state or municipal 4. Ear muffs
authorities. 5. Long sleeved shirt and long pants
6. Work boots and socks
C. If air is drained from the hose and air tool, the tip of the tool shall be in contact
or beneath the soil surface to avoid excessive noise. C. If the area has active fire ant activity, personnel shall take precautions including
sealing of cuffs and the use of insect repellents to avoid fire ant attack.
PART 2 - PRODUCTS D. Air hoses used in the operation shall have safety pins and whip guards installed
at each hose junction.
2.01 EQUIPMENT
E. The air flow heating valve (if present on the compressor) shall be turned off
************************************************************************************* when working near trees so as not to damage bark.
Select first Paragraph A if proprietary specification is permitted
*************************************************************************************
Appendix 37
3.02 SOIL PREPARATION 3. Defining the area to be excavated – mark the soil surface of the area to be
inspected and define the depth of inspection/soil removal.
A. Trees proposed to undergo specialized root zone and soil excavation operations 4. After inspection, define how the space is treated; i.e., fill it in with the same
shall be adequately watered before start of operations. Amount and frequency soil, new soil, or leave open; mulch, sod, or seed on surface.
of watering shall be determined by certified arborist. No operations shall 5. Define aftercare, e.g., soil moisture sensors, irrigation level, or frequency.
commence prior to preparation approval in writing by certified arborist.
B. The assessment should also provide any recommendations for tree protection,
B. Soil shall be moist to the point of field capacity prior to and during the health care before, during, and after the completion of site work, and any
operation. If dust is generated during the operation, it shall be stopped and additional issues or constraints that should guide project goals and/or
the soil should be wetted. If turf, large rock, or mulch is present in the area implementation strategies based on tree and field conditions.
to be included in the excavation, it shall be removed prior to the start of the
operation. C. Utilize AirSpade or hand dig to carry out subterranean investigations to
ascertain the condition of structural roots to assess tree stability. AirSpade
3.03 AIR TILLING shall be used to investigate suspected tree root decay or damage.
A. Contractor shall utilize the AirSpade tool to aerate and de-compact to the 3.06 VERTICAL MULCHING
specified depth (typically 6-8 in.) of the topsoil layer. If modification to soil
content and aeration is necessary to a greater depth, then this application can *************************************************************************************
be combined with others such as radial trenching or vertical mulching. (Refer to Utilize vertical mulching for sites with shallow soil depth, anaerobic conditions, or other
Paragraphs 3.06 and 3.07.) types of poor growing soils. This application is especially useful in areas shared by
perennial or ground-cover plantings, where minimal disturbance is desired.
1. Place plywood sheets over adjacent trenches to prevent refilling. *************************************************************************************
2. Position the AirSpade at an angle of 30° to 45° (depending on target depth)
and about 1 inch from the surface. A. Vertical mulching with AirSpade shall be used to de-compact and augment soil
3. Move the nozzle from side to side to define the desired trench width. deep into the tree root zone.
4. Do not dwell on the same spot.
5. Width, depth, and length of trench, and soil augmentation to be determined B. Spray paint target marks on the ground to indicate hole locations.
based on tree needs and project goals.
6. The adjustable dirt shield should be positioned close to the ground to deflect C. Bore holes shall be to specified depth (typically 18 to 36 in. deep) depending on
airborne material away from the operator. individual site needs and determined health of trees. When resistance is met,
7. Refer to manufacturer’s updated safety and operational guidelines. slowly withdraw the AirSpade and then reinsert, allowing loosened soil at the
bottom of the hole to exit upwards.
3.04 SOIL AUGMENTATION
D. Fill vertical holes with mature leaf compost or other augmentation material as
A. Soil augmentation: Fertilizers, composts, or other soil components shall be recommended by arborist.
applied evenly and at rates determined by soil test results in accordance with
Section 329115, PLANTING SOILS. Soil amendments shall be blended into E. To avoid undesirable concentrations of augmented nutrients (“hotspots”),
existing soil using an AirSpade. use amendments that are compatible or blended with existing soils. [Refer to
Section 329115, PLANTING SOILS]. For more extensive results, it is possible
3.05 TREE ROOT ZONE INVESTIGATION to perform vertical mulching over the course of several growing seasons.
A. At a minimum, Tree Root Zone Investigation shall include the following: 3.07 RADIAL TRENCHING
1. Establishing the objective of the inspection, such as detecting cut or *************************************************************************************

damaged roots, particularly where trees are located near to recent Utilize radial trenching to de-compact and augment soil to moderate depths within a CRZ.
excavation works on building sites or where trenches for underground This application is especially useful in areas shared by perennial or ground-cover plantings,
utilities have been dug, root disease or decay, drilling for decay, or collecting where minimal disturbance is desired.
samples for submission to a lab. *************************************************************************************
2. The location of tree roots may also need to be determined, for example
during an assessment to trees in relation to building subsidence or when A. Radial trenching with AirSpade shall be used to de-compact and augment soil
planning construction works near to a tree. into the tree root zone.

B. Spray paint lines on the ground to indicate trench locations. C. When the tree’s excavated root zone will remain exposed for several days or
more, protect and cover roots (for example with soil, mulch, or burlap cloth)
C. Create trenches to a specific depth (typically 10 to 12 in. deep) depending on and provide supplemental water as required.
individual site needs and determined health of trees.
3.10 BARE ROOTING AND TRANSPLANTING
D. To avoid undesirable concentrations of augmented nutrients (“hotspots”), use
amendments that are compatible or blended with existing soils. [Refer to *************************************************************************************
Section 329115, PLANTING SOILS]. Bare rooting with an AirSpade can also be applied to perennial, shrub, and groundcover
plantings. This method of transplanting offers the ability to preserve fine root systems.
3.08 ROOT COLLAR EXCAVATION Furthermore, bare rooting small plants is often required during more extensive root zone
treatments (such as aeration and de-compaction) or other site work applications. Another
A. When grade is set too high against tree root flare or root collar, it shall be application of growing popularity involves bare rooting of nursery stock prior to planting.
corrected through root collar excavation with an AirSpade. AirSpade must be *************************************************************************************
kept moving back and forth. Do not dwell on same spot.
A. When bare rooting is required to relocate or replace soil around existing trees,
B. Fine roots should be cut and removed if they interfere with the excavation. utilize an AirSpade to minimize damage to the tree’s root system. Bare rooting
qThe excavation shall be concluded when the upper portion of a majority of operations shall expose existing tree roots as necessary to allow them to be
buttress roots are exposed. Once uncovered, certified arborist shall identify pruned and turned down to accommodate new adjacent paving systems.
roots that need to be removed. Roots less than ¼ in. diameter may be
lowered into the soil using an AirSpade. If the excavation depth exceeds one B. Using an AirSpade, remove almost all the soil from the tree root system, or
foot, consult with the certified arborist and landscape architect. If signs or leave excess soil to transplant with the tree. Once the root zone is excavated,
symptoms of decay or disease are noticed, notify the certified arborist and the arborist can prune the root mass to the desired length. It is critical to
landscape architect. If stem girdling roots less than 1/3 the diameter of the keep bare roots protected from the sun and hydrated, and to minimize the time
trunk are discovered during the operation, or if several small stem girdling roots between excavation and transplanting.
are discovered, they should be removed. If stem girdling roots greater than 1/3
the diameter of the trunk or many smaller stem girdling roots are discovered, 3.11 SOIL REPLACEMENT
the certified arborist and landscape architect shall be notified.
A. Refer to Section 329115, PLANTING SOILS.
C. Replace topsoil or augmented soil to cover roots to proper elevation. [Refer to
Section 329115, PLANTING SOILS.] 3.12 DISPOSAL OF MATERIALS
D. After the excess soil is removed, the excavated area shall be filled with mulch A. Soil moved during the air-spading operations shall be collected and moved off-
or wood chips as directed by the arborist. The mulch or wood chips shall not site or disposed of on-site if it not visually apparent.
be in contact with the tree trunk and shall not hide the buttress roots from
inspection. Mulch or wood chip depth should be between 2 and 4 inches, based B. Material resulting from the specialized root zone and soil excavation work and not
on the coarseness of the material and approved by the certified arborist and scheduled to be salvaged and is unsuitable for reuse on the project, shall become
landscape architect. the property of the contractor and shall be legally disposed of off-site.
3.09 ROOT PRUNING AND TRAINING C Debris, rubbish, and other material shall be disposed of promptly and shall not
be left until final cleanup of site.
A. Trees subjected to soil cuts within the root zone shall be root pruned by a
certified arborist utilizing an AirSpade, removing as little of the tree’s root
system as possible. END OF SECTION
B. Once existing roots have been safely exposed, a certified arborist shall
determine the best places to make clean cuts using a hand pruner. Smaller
roots shall be lowered down into soil horizon to help train them to follow a
future path of growth.
Appendix 39
Glossary
Aeration. Describes the ability of air to transfer through the soil, and Directional root pruning. Cutting root branches that are growing in the
the availability of oxygen to a plant’s root system. Also used to refer desired direction.
to several techniques used to loosen or penetrate compacted or poorly
drained saturated soils. Dripline. The edge of a tree’s leafing canopy as projected onto the ground.
Air-spading. Refers to any specialized soil excavation technique utilizing Fibrous root. Fine root mass responsible for most of a tree’s water and
a supersonic compressed air-powered tool. nutrient uptake.
Amendment. Soil additives that can be added to existing site soil. These Finish grade. Elevation of surfaces after completion of construction or
can include organic or inorganic soil matter, nutrients, bio-char, or tree maintenance work.
beneficial organisms. Girdling. Roots or materials that wrap or cross other roots, the root
American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA). National collar or the trunk of the tree. Girdling roots can weaken or kill a tree
professional association for landscape architects. by constricting the circulatory system and causing structural issues.
Anaerobic. Soil conditions that lack oxygen, typically caused by Hand-digging. Careful soil excavation using handtools to expose roots
saturation, over-compaction, or soil structure that is poor or for inspection or to determine where mechanical excavation can be done
incompatible with use of a landscape. without causing significant root damage or loss.
Approved contractor. Operators engaged in specialized soil excavation Initial Site Investigation. Site visit, usually by the project arborist and
using an AirSpade should demonstrate minimum education, training, and landscape architect, to inventory and evaluate existing trees’ health and
experience to perform the required work. treatment options, and to determine strategic design possibilities based
on these opportunities and constraints.
Arborist. An individual engaged in the profession of arboriculture
who, through experience, education, and related training, possesses Inorganic. Refering to soils low in carbon and nutrients; typically inert
the competence to provide for or supervise the management of trees stone or sand. Inorganic soil amendments are often used to improve soil
and other woody ornamentals. Qualified arborists should possess drainage and aeration.
certification through ISA. Arborist companies should also be accredited International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). International professional
through the TCIA and meet state requirements for insurance. association for arborists.
Augmentation. The process of adding amendments to existing site soil. Landscape architect (L.A.).
Bare root. The removal of soil from a tree’s root system. Leaf compost. Well-composted, stable, and weed-free organic matter,
Beneficial organisms/microbes. See Soil microbes. pH of 5.5 to 8; moisture content 35 to 55 percent by weight; 100
percent passing through a 1-inch (25-mm) sieve; soluble-salt content of
Council of Tree and Landscape Appraisers. Publisher of “Guide for 2 to 5 dS/m; not exceeding 0.5 percent inert contaminants and free of
Plant Appraisal,” a standard reference for tree valuation. substances toxic to plantings.
Critical Root Zone (CRZ). The volume of roots necessary for Loam. Soil that contains a combination of particles typically almost
maintenance of tree health and stability, typically measured with a equal in parts sand, silt, and clay and including organic matter.
minimum radius of 10’ from the trunk or as much as one and one-
half times (1.5x) the tree’s current dripline. CRZ will be determined/ Mulch. A material placed on the soil surface often for the purpose
established on a case by case basis through input from the arborist and of aiding soil moisture retention and preventing soil compaction.
approval by the landscape architect. Wood chips are a specific type of mulch that is preferable for most
arboricultural applications because it’s readily available, compaction

resistant, and relatively low in nutrients. Other common mulches are maintain healthy soil ecology and sustained tree nutrient uptake and
made from composted organic matter such as leaves or pine bark. root growth.
Permeability. The ability of water to pass through soil. Permeability is Specialized Root Zone and Soil Excavation Plan. Indicating the extent
commonly impacted by soil composition, gradation, and compaction. of soils to be air-spaded. Show all areas of proposed staging, vehicle or
equipment access, trenching, excavating, or other disturbance to soils.
Organic amendments. Refers to soil additives high in carbon or
nutrients. Common organic amendments include manure, composts, Supplemental watering. Watering done outside of a normal regimen of
and other fertilizers. tree care, typically required due to construction, transplanting, drought,
or other tree care operations that would place abnormal stress on a
Root ball. The transplanted portion of a plant’s root system, either tree. Supplemental watering often requires constant monitoring by a
from container growth or from being dug using a tree spade. A root ball tree care professional.
includes transplanted soil, and can remain distinctive long after planting,
causing issues with plant growth due to differential soils. Tap root. A large, typically single root that extends vertically from at
tree’s central leader, and deep into the soil profile.
Root collar. The junction between a tree’s root system and the trunk.
Tilling. A process of loosening and turning soil, typically done within a
Root leader. Large roots that spread out from the center of a plant. shallow soil depth; tilling promotes root growth by improving aeration,
Root Zone Investigation. A diagnostic inventory or sampling of a tree’s opening pore space due to compaction.
root zone, typically conducted using an AirSpade and always by a Topsoil. Soil that is present at the top layer of the existing soil profile at
trained arborist. the project site.
Scarify. A process of loosening compacted soil either by use of Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA). Trade association of tree care
mechanical or air excavation tools. firms and affiliates.
Sinker roots. Arise along lateral roots and generally occur within the Tree Damage Penalty. A penalty assessed to a contractor for damage
drip line. They grow vertically downward, penetrating as much as several to trees designated for construction. These penalties are typically
feet. Sinker roots play a key role in accessing water and minerals based on industry standards for tree valuation or specially assigned to
deeper in the soil profile. This function is especially important at times important specimen trees, and should be designated in construction
when surface soils become depleted of vital resources, principally water. specifications and bid as part of known construction contingencies.
Sinker roots also serve a role in anchoring the tree (excerpted from ISA
Root Management BMP). Tree Resource Evaluation. A document or site plan describing the tree
resources on the site, with information provided from an inventory or
Soil horizon. One of several layers in a soil profile defined by physical survey such as: tree species, size, location, condition, plant community,
makeup, color, and texture. The ‘A’ horizon refers to topsoil near the structure, health, and population estimate.
surface (up to 18”- 24” depth or more), and is usually defined by a
composition of organic and inorganic matter important to plant growth. Tree Value Appraisal. A formal assessment of the value of trees based
The ‘B’ horizon, or subsoil, is also important for deep root growth, and on an agreed standard, typically done by a certified arborist.
is typically more coarse and lower in organic content and nutrients than
the topsoil. The ‘C’ horizon, or substratum, is typically inorganic and Wood-chip mulch. A material placed on the soil surface composed of
defines the limit of most vertical root penetration. ground wood, bark, and leaves, usually generated by sending tree parts
through a wood chipping machine.
Soil microbes. A wide array of organisms that are necessary to
Appendix 41
Further Reading Online Resources
ANSI A300 Support Systems Standard (Part 2). “Best Manangement AirSpade “Applications: Arboriculture/Horticulture,” including master
Practices Soil Management for Urban Trees.” International Society of specifications: https://www.airspade.com/applications/markets/
Arboriculture (ISA), 2014. arboriculture-horticulture
ANSI A300 Support Systems Standard (Part 3). “Tree, Shrub, and Bartlett Tree Resource Library: https://www.bartlett.com/resourceList.cfm
Other Woody Plant Maintenance – Standard Practices (Supplemental
Support Systems).” International Society of Arboriculture (ISA), International Society of Arboriculture: http://www.isa-arbor.com/
2006.
This booklet is available to download as a PDF, along with master
Christina E. Wells, Kelby L. Fite and Dr. E.Thomas Smiley. “Soil specifications and CAD details online at: www.airspade.com/guide
Decompaction and Amendment for Urban Trees,” Tree Care Industry,
September 2009, p. 8-11.
Dr. E. Thomas Smiley. “Air Excavation to Improve Tree Health.” Tree

Care Industry, May 2001. p. 45-47.
Kelby Fite and Dr. E. Thomas Smiley. “Best Management Practices

(BMP) - Managing Trees During Construction, Second Edition.”
International Society of Arboriculture (ISA), 2016.
Kelby Fite, Dr. E. Thomas Smiley, John McIntyre, and Christina E.

Wells. “Evaluation of a Soil Decompaction and Amendment Process.”
Arboriculture & Urban Forestry 2011. 37(6): 293–300.
Neal, Cathy. “Getting to the roots: Production Effects On Tree Root

Growth and Morphology - American Nurseryman.” B&B. American
Nurseryman, 1 July 2014. Web. 19 May 2016.
Phelps, Johanna. “To preserve and protect: Working with arborists.”

Point of View. Metropolis Magazine, 7 Jan. 2016. Web. 19 May
2016.
Rick Sweet. “Ease Excavating Dangers with Compressed Air Tools,”

Damage Prevention Professional. Winter, 2016.

Contributors and Bios
Bartlett Tree Research Laboratories an expert in the nuances of specifications and project delivery. Vince graduated from
Syracuse University in 1980 with a Bachelor of Science, and from the State University
of New York, College of Environmental Science and Forestry in 1981 with a Bachelor of
Kelby Fite, contributing author
Landscape Architecture.
V.P. Research & Director at Bartlett Tree Research Laboratories
Kelby has been a member of the Bartlett Tree Research Laboratories team for fourteen
years, beginning as a Plant Protection Specialist. In his current position as Director
of Research, his key area of responsibility is research and public education in shade Stephen Stimson Associates | Landscape Architects
tree management and arboriculture, with emphasis on urban soils and integrated pest
management. He holds a Ph.D. in Plant and Environmental Science from Clemson Terence J. Fitzpatrick, ASLA, editor
University, with a research focus on urban soil renovation and root biology. He also Terry is a designer and project manager at Stephen Stimson Associates in Cambridge,
holds a Master of Plant Protection and Pest Management, and a Bachelor of Science in MA. He has worked on a diverse range of projects and holds a special interest in the
Horticulture, both from the University of Georgia. application of innovative construction technologies and urban forestry. He holds degrees
in Landscape Architecture from SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry
Dr. Thomas Smiley, contributing author (BLA, 2009) and the Graduate School of Design at Harvard University (MLA II, 2013).
Senior Arboricultural Researcher, Bartlett Tree Research Laboratories
Dr. Tom Smiley is a Senior Arboricultural Researcher at the Bartlett Tree Research Christopher Miczek, technical review
Laboratory in Charlotte, NC and an adjunct professor of Urban Forestry at Clemson Chris earned his Bachelor’s of Landscape Architecture in 2011 from the University of
University. Dr. Smiley is active in the arboriculture industry and has co-authored many Rhode Island, where he received a RIASLA Merit Award for his student work. Chris
of the International Society of Arboriculture’s (ISA) Best Management Practices. His worked for Bartlett Tree for several years, focusing primarily on the preservation of
research has led to improved methods of increasing sidewalk longevity near trees, large existing trees on new construction sites in and around Boston. Chris now manages
protecting trees from lightning damage, improving tree root growth, and reducing tree operations at Charbrook Nursery and practices landscape design with extensive
risk. experience in construction observation and tree preservation and plant installation.
Stephen Stimson, FASLA, reviewer

Born and raised on a dairy farm, Stephen’s agrarian heritage has inspired and shaped
Guardair Corporation the landscapes he has created across New England and the country. He received his
education from the University of Massachusetts and the Harvard Graduate School of
Richard N. Sweet, contributing author Design and has been practicing landscape architecture for over twenty years, founding
AirSpade Product Specialist, Guardair Corporation the firm in 1992. His work has been widely recognized with numerous awards from
Rick has been sharing the benefits of air-powered soil excavation with arborists and the Boston Society of Landscape Architects and the American Society of Landscape
horticulturalists for the last 12 years. Prior to his time at AirSpade, Rick held a series Architects. He has taught at the Harvard Graduate School of Design and lectured and
of sales and marketing positions at the iconic H.J. Heinz Company. He received his BA served on design juries at the University of Massachusetts, Rhode Island School of
in Mathematics from the University of Wisconsin and his MBA from the University of Design, and Roger Williams University. Stephen was elected as a Fellow of the American
Pittsburgh. Society of Landscape Architects in 2004 for his outstanding achievements in the field
of landscape architecture. For the past five years, he has been cultivating Charbrook
Thomas C. Tremblay, contributing author Nursery for project use and field research related to native plant propagation, collected
President, Guardair Corporation species, planted forms, and soil specifications.
With a rich history dating back to 1942, Guardair Corporation is a world-class
manufacturer of industrial/commercial pneumatic tools and accessories, including the Joseph Wahler, contributing author
AirSpade. In 1994, Tom led a buy-out group that acquired the company and has guided Principal, ASLA, RLA
and grown the business since that time. Before Guardair, Tom was a Vice President at Joe has been practicing landscape architecture for over fifteen years. He’s a master
New England Capital, the venture capital arm of the Bank of New England. Prior, he held at collaboration, and in achieving elegance through the application of new technologies
the position of Senior Consultant at Technology Consulting Group in Boston. Tom holds a in the design and construction process. Joe’s projects have included a master plan
BS in Electrical Engineering from Lafayette College, as well as a Master’s in Business and and renovation of Forest Park in Lake Forest, Illinois, an anticipated LEED Platinum
Manufacturing Engineering from Boston University. Headquarters for Parks & People in Baltimore, Ferrous Site Park, in Lawrence,
Massachusetts. He has worked on numerous institutional projects, including the new
Rico Associates Science and Engineering Complex at Harvard University, and also on private residences
in New England, the Mid Atlantic, and Prince Edward Island. Joe received a Master’s in
Vincent P. Rico, specifications author Landscape Architecture from Ohio State University in 2001 and a Bachelor of Science
Landscape Architect, Specifications Consultant, ASLA, CSI, SCIP, CCS, RLA, in Ornamental Horticulture from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign in 1998. Joe
Vince is a practicing landscape architect and consultant based in Boston, MA. He was awarded the Merit for Excellence in the Study of Landscape Architecture from the
has collaborated with numerous award-winning landscape architecture firms, and is ASLA in 2001.
Appendix 43
AirSpade Technical Applications Bulletin
Guardair Corporation
Bartlett Tree Research Laboratories
Stephen Stimson Associates | Landscape Architects
This booklet is available to download as a PDF, along with CAD details online at:
www.airspade.com/guide
Division of Guardair Corporation

47 Veterans Drive • Chicopee, MA 01022-1062
Toll-Free: 800-482-7324 | Local: 413-594-4400 | Fax: 413-594-4884
Email: [email protected] • airspade.com

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ARBOR

Technical Applications Bulletin

Kelby Fite, Ph.D

editor Terence J. Fitzpatrick

Stephen Stimson Associates | Landscape Architects

With construction master specifications by Vincent P.

Prepared by Stephen Stimson Associates | Landscape

AirSpade Innovations, Techniques, Technologies 06

Anticipate and React: Landscape Architectural Practice 09

Critical Root Zone: Issues & Applications 14

STANDARD CONSTRUCTION DETAILS 16

Air Tilling (Root Invigoration) 18

Root Collar Excavation 24

Urban Soil Replacement 30

Credits and Bios 43

The AirSpade is a unique tool in the arboriculture industry. Shortly after

At the F.A. Bartlett Tree Expert Company, we continue to treat

Root Collar Excavation: At Williams College in Massacusetts, a certified

A BRIEF HISTORY OF AIR EXCAVATION

In addition to uncovering utility lines, pneumatic excavation was

The AirSpade is designed to meet these requirements and includes the

8 AirSpade Technical Applications Bulletin

The importance and value of trees in our urban environments and

We had specified an American beech (Fagus grandiflora) hedge along the

12 AirSpade Technical Applications Bulletin

The Critical Root Zone: Issues & Applications

Root Zone Soil Management Soil Replacement

SUBSOIL ‘B’ HORIZON

SUBGRADE ‘C’ HORIZON

Corrections to Root Structure Specialized Excavation for Construction

Overall tree health is crucial prior to the use of an AirSpade. The

When using an AirSpade, it is important to perform a field moisture

Site protection plans should be developed with the landscape architect

The safety of the operator, and nearby people and property is of

16 AirSpade Technical Applications Bulletin

CRITICAL ROOT ZONE (CRZ)

CRITICAL ROOT ZONE (CRZ)

AXON: TYPE 2 MOVEABLE FABRIC BARRIER

TREE PROTECTION FENCE

PLYWOOD PANEL SOIL 'B' HORIZON

PROTECTIVE BARRIER SITE PREP AND PROTECTION W/ AIRSPADE

18 AirSpade Technical Applications Bulletin

TO BE DETERMINED MAINTAIN PROPER GRADE

TREE ROOTS; ROOT PRUNE AS REQUIRED,

EXISTING SOIL 'B' HORIZON

EXISTING SUBGRADE 'C' HORIZON

AIR TILLING W/ AIRSPADE

20 AirSpade Technical Applications Bulletin

2. ALL WORK TO BE DONE UNDER THE SUPERVISION OF CERTIFIED ARBORIST OR

3. PROTECT TREE AND TREE ROOTS THROUGHOUT CONSTRUCTION. AIRSPADE OR HAND

EXISTING TREE ROOTS, TYP.

SOIL 'B' HORIZON

RADIAL TRENCHING W/ AIRSPADE

Aeration and soil amendments from vertical mulching can encourage

An appropriate soil augmentation strategy is vital and should be

Like other root zone soil treatments, vertical mulching is preferably

bottom: Large campus

22 AirSpade Technical Applications Bulletin

2 USE AIRSPADE TO BARE-ROOT IMPACTED PLANTINGS DURING SOIL AERATION.