Tree Cabling & Bracing

Tree Cabling & Bracing

What is Cabling and Bracing?

One of the tree services 4 Seasons Arbor Services provides is known as cabling and bracing.  Essentially this involves using cables and/or supports such as rods or stakes to help a tree grow properly.  Although cabling and bracing can help improve tree health and promote proper growth, it may not always be appropriate.  A certified arborist is an expert in tree care and truly cares for the health of your trees.  He/she can help you identify the best course of action.

Questions you should ask when considering cabling and bracing: Is the tree a high value tree?  Does it provide beauty and function to your property? Is the tree safe and worth saving?  Does it have some sentimental meaning or value to it that makes it very important to you to save?  What is the cost for cabling and bracing versus removal and/or replacement of the tree?  How long will it last? What steps need to be taken to ensure that the tree remains secure and in good health?

There are different methods to cabling and bracing.  Sometimes it is necessary to install a galvanized wire and hardware between critical stems.  Other times, non-invasive poly ropes are used.  These ropes have self-adjusting loops that expand as the tree grows larger and thicker. Sometimes iron rods need to be installed into a weak forming tree crotch.  These different methods are considered by your certified arborist.  He/she will ultimately use whatever method will promote the best growth and overall tree health.

The Certified Arborist at 4 Seasons Arbor Service will help you make the right choices when it comes to your trees and plants.  Call today to save your trees and your money!

Tree Cabling and BracingTree Cabling and Bracing

The first picture shows a non-invasive, non-metallic support system holding the multiple stems of the tree together.  As the tree branches grow in diameter the expandable loops on each cable will grow without girdling the branches.  This is known as the COBRA system.

The second picture shows a very large linden that developed a split between the primary stems.  A hole was drilled through both stems at the crack and a large, heavy duty rod with washers and nuts was installed.  The second component of this system was a large galvanized wire which was installed in the upper two-thirds of the tree to help absorb some of the pressure of the wind and hold the two stems together.

Both clients enjoy the benefit of these beautiful trees and thus wanted to save them rather than remove them and replant.