Metal tree ring: How to help your trees thrive

27 February 2023

We see trees daily in gardens, on roadsides, in parks, from office windows, and in suburban areas. Plants bring us joy all year with their greenery and colourful leaves. They make us feel connected to nature and bring a sense of beauty and peace. When a tree doesn't grow well in your garden, it can be really frustrating because trees usually bring happiness.

How to identify a tree is struggling

Watch for wilting or yellowing leaves, as they may indicate a stressed, diseased, or insect-infested tree. You might see dead branches or the tree not growing as well as usual. It may also shed an abundance of sticks and twigs, more than in previous years. If you notice your tree is struggling, it’s time to take action.

Trees are complex organisms and require proper care and maintenance to thrive. Understanding the causes of tree failure can help you identify and address problems before they become too severe.

7 Reasons why trees fail to establish

1. Poor soil quality

2. Lack of water

3. Pests and diseases

4. Improper pruning

5. Damage to the roots

6. Environmental factors

7. Improper planting

Metal garden edging tree ring in the middle of a lawn with a healthy tree growing in it

How metal tree ring edging helps tree health

Steel tree rings, also called tree planters, enhance tree growth and have a pleasing visual effect on gardens.

The best way to protect tree roots

It’s a common misconception that the roots of trees go deep underground. Most tree roots don't go deeper than 2m, but some small roots can reach 5m. The majority of roots grow within 60cm of the soil's surface.

One of the main benefits of metal tree ring edging is how it protects the tree's roots from damage. The metal ring provides a physical barrier to prevent foot traffic, lawnmowers, and other equipment from damaging the roots. Healthy roots equal healthy plants.

Improves garden and tree drainage

The metal tree ring prevents soil and debris buildup around the tree. It allows water to drain away from the roots, preventing overwatering and root rot. This prevents overwatering and root rot.

Reduces nutrient competition

Metal tree ring edging reduces the competition for water and nutrients from nearby plants. A boundary around the tree stops other plants from invading its roots and competing for water and nutrients. Lawns are notoriously greedy!

Allows appropriate tree care

Using mulch in the steel tree ring keeps the soil moist and stops weeds. Using mulch in the steel tree ring helps to maintain soil moisture and prevent weed growth. Additionally, the tree ring allows for precise fertilizer application based on the soil's requirements. This control over fertilizer usage is limited to the ring area and does not impact the tree trunk.

Where to buy metal tree ring edging NZ

EverEdge supplies garden edging products NZ-wide – including tree rings. Available in the same colourways as our garden bed edging and as Corten steel edging, EverEdge supports a cohesive garden design.

If you have any questions about our tree rings, installation, or size needed, please contact us today. You can reach us at 021 925 389 or click here to send us a message.

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A red lawn mower is cutting grass on a gravel road

Winter lawn care: preparing your lawn and edges for a strong spring comeback

30 July 2025

Winter might give you a break from summer’s relentless mowing schedule, but it’s no time to forget about your lawn. While grass growth noticeably slows in the cooler temperatures, your lawn still needs some attention through the colder months. With just a little care now, you’ll be rewarded with a healthier, more resilient lawn that requires less maintenance and attention come spring – and at the heart of a healthy lawn is EverEdge garden edging . Mow smart Whereas growth warm-season varieties of grasses like kikuyu, couch, and buffalo slow, cool-season grasses such as perennial rye, fescue, and Kentucky blue grass remain active through winter and benefit from regular mowing. Every 3–4 weeks should do the trick, depending on growth. Keep the mower height up a little higher than you usually would set it to allows for a thicker leaf area to absorb more light and helps the lawn stay robust. Mow on a dry day and use a catcher to reduce fungal issues. Sharpen mower blades and clean them between cuts to prevent disease spread - healthy grass starts with clean tools. Light and airflow matter Low winter sun and a change to trees can put your lawn under stress. Your lawn needs light to be able to photosynthesise so where necessary, prune overhanging branches to allow more light through to vulnerable areas of lawn. Regularly raking leaves prevents the blanket of tree debris smothering the lawn and helps reduce the risk of disease. Moss and fungal issues thrive in damp, low-light conditions, so improving air and light circulation is key. Feed roots, not leaves Feeding your lawn in winter isn’t essential, but it can be beneficial - particularly in warmer regions or for cool-season grasses. But it’s important to choose a formula that supports root development and soil biology – this helps to improve resistance to stress and fungal issues.