The Tree Surgeon’s Log: 10 Ways to Save Your Landscape
A tree’s silent struggle can quickly turn into a property hazard. Whether it’s "included bark" or hidden "heart rot," catching these symptoms early prevents costly removals and storm damage.
Included Bark (V-Unions)
When two stems grow too close together, bark gets trapped between them, preventing the wood from bonding. This creates a ticking time bomb for a split. The Fix: For young trees, prune one stem to establish a single leader. For mature trees, a professional Cabling and Bracing system can be installed to physically bolt the two halves together.
Storm-Damaged "Hangers"
Broken branches caught high in the canopy are a major safety risk to anyone walking below. The Fix: Do not try to shake them down. Use a throw line to safely snag the branch from the ground, or use a pole saw to make a clean cut. If it’s near power lines, stop immediately and call the utility company.
Chlorotic Dieback
If leaves are turning pale yellow while the veins stay green, your tree is likely suffering from an iron or manganese deficiency caused by high-alkaline soil. The Fix: Apply Liquid Iron or soil acidifiers directly to the root zone. For a faster "ER" response, trunk injections can bypass the soil and deliver nutrients directly into the tree's vascular system.