I have a maple tree with roots damaged by lawnmower, the damaged areas are now turning black. What can I do?

Question:The areas seem to be holding moisture and rotting. Is there anything that can be packed into the areas?

Answers:
1. Stop running over the roots with the lawnmower.
2. If #1 is not possible, raise the blade.
3. The roots will get callous growth and seal the wounds in time. Do nothing other than #1 or #2.


Alternately, if the roots are pervasive in the lawn area, you can topdress with a compost soil mix and plant over the area with grass seed.

If the surface roots do not extend too far out from the tree, create a circle around the tree encompassing the roots and apply bark mulch.

Good luck.