The utilization of cabling / bracing supports structurally weak trees, that are susceptible to damage from wind or even the weight of their own foliage. These support techniques utilize specialized applications, materials and require an understanding of loads and tree dynamics to successfully make the tree more structurally stable.
Possible Reasons for Cabling / Bracing: Tight "V" Crotch with Included Bark A Split at a Primary Trunk Crotch Multi-Stem Trees with Suspect Crotches Trees with Heavy Foliage Stress Damage Over extended Limbs Valuable or Mature Trees Trees relative to a target
Tree Brace
The use of tree cabling systems provides support to limbs that are an important aspect to the balance, aesthetics and structural integrity of a tree.
Dynamic Systems (Synthetic cable wrapped around tree) Pros No wounding of trees Ability for future adjustments Tree is able to move in the wind increasing the development of reaction wood, strengthening the stem and branches.
Cons Cables may stretch over time Breaking strength is less
Dynamic non-invasive cabling aids in support of limbs to naturally bend and sway using internal shock absorbers while preventing hyper-extension of a branch. This system only adds support during extreme movement and can be adjusted as the tree continues to develop.
Static Systems (Steel cable & eye bolts drilled into tree) Pros: Materials last longer Support of larger limbs
Cons: Requires drilling into tree, which causes wounding Requires special tools More Labor intensive Static systems are rigid, meaning the tree cannot move on its own, sometimes making weak branch attachments even weaker
Static cabling is an invasive, fixed system that must be installed by drilling into limbs which is seldom recommended except in required situations.
Bracing Brace rods are utilized to reduce risk of two or more leaders from spreading further apart or moving sideways. Braces may fasten together a crotch or branch that has split apart.
Important Points to Remember on all Cabling & Bracing Installations:
Support systems are not a solution to all defects and are not recommended for all trees.
Trees with excessive decay and structural defects are not considered for support.
There is a limit to the amount of weight that a support system can hold; therefore, trees with massive limbs need special consideration.
It is important to note that even trees that have been cabled may fail. There is no guarantee that trees that have been given a support system will provide total tree safety.
Support systems are NOT intended to eliminate risk and are not considered permanent remedies to structural weaknesses.
Pruning is crucial prior to installation as well as a future pruning program to alleviate tension placed on the support system due to annual growth. This increases the effectiveness your tree support system and allows us to perform an inspection at no additional cost.
Annual Arborist Inspections: It is imperative to contact our office to have a certified arborist inspect and reassess your trees' support system annually, or if you have experienced a lightning strike within close proximity. This ensures the integrity and proper performance of the system, health and any other concerns that accompany tree cabling / bracing systems.
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Tight "V" Crotch with Included Bark 
