(Mark Twain said something to the effect of there are 3 types of lies, Lies. Damned lies and statistics. But I digress. And what do I know?)
Trees are wonderful and alive but they do change over time. They are under regular change and stresses. Some trees are more adept at handling these changes and stresses, others are not. (Think gravity and trying to defeat it, can you hold you arm out straight and level for 35 years or more? In a 40 mph wind. No time in the gym will help...) Maybe not the best example but you get the point. Trees are impacted constantly and the require your help. They require professional inspection.
A few things to note this winter:
Trees may develop internal cracks especially if there is a wound on the tree. This can be compounded with the forces of wind or even leaf weight in the spring. But spring is a ways away.
As the winter season approaches we often see more stem and branch failure. This is normal in most cases and trees shed parts sometimes as a way of dampening forces. Mostly this is not a big deal if the tree is in the back 40 and no where near people or structures. Often that isn't the case. Regular inspection of large trees should be done this time of year. The last thing anyone wants is a hole in the roof and rain on the carpet.
Most often forgot is that trees are only as good as their roots. Any activity or alteration in the root plate area must be scrutinized and evaluated. There are standards for the distance any construction should take place near a tree. If you have concerns about construction activity near a tree let us know, we'd be glad to help develop a tree preservation plan.
Another note on roots as we approach the wet and windy season is a thing called soil shear. Saturated soils and high wind can lead a tree to windthrow. The tree and its roots at this point are no longer able to remain in a cohesive type effort. If you see a tree leaning it is even more prone to windthrow.
The bottom line here is that we need to inspect our trees regularly. Below are a few photos of a tree with issues.
1. Lean
2. A target below
3. Roots and soil heaving
4. Fungus
Home below
Eric climbing up the tree.
Fungal conks of Ganoderma
This rot degrades the structural support of the tree. Making it prone to stem fracturing under loads.
Severe lean and soil heaving.
Take care of your trees. Give us a call!
Thanks for stopping by.
