It is easy to avoid damaging the above ground portion of a tree because of its high visibility. Root and soil damage is less obvious and may result in tree death or damage which may not be evident for as long as 8 to 10 years. Soils have physical, chemical and biological characteristics or systems which can be changed by construction activities.
Soil texture refers to the size of individual mineral particles-clay, silt or sand.
Soils with high clay content, will hold more water for plant growth, yet may be more susceptible to soil compaction. Sandy soils, hold less water and are less susceptible of soil compaction. Water and air movement and the ease of root growth through soils are determined by pore size, not necessarily the size of individual mineral particles. This soil structure is an indication of the degree or level to which soil particles are aggregated together, creating more pore space. In general, the more structure a soil has, the more desirable it is for tree growth.