All thread rods and cables

[Tom Dunlap]

I'm with Jamin on this one.

Gradual reduction is much better for the tree. The closer we can be to the 1/3 ratio the better. By cutting back the limb to the point that it just maintains life without declining allows the rest of the tree to gain in diameter, store up more starches and decay-fighting organisms. As the other diameter increases the removal limb doesn't gain diameter. At the same time the chemical CODIT barriers start to form because we've faked the tree into thinking that the limb is declining but not dead. The tree will maintain itself but not gain [much] diameter.

When a better time comes the limb can be reduced again or removed. At some future time the 1/3 ratio will be closer.

In high decay trees like silver maples, cottonwood, poplars, etc. this is a good practice.

 

[theXman]

I was expecting someone to say this. So I just let it happen instead of writing a longer post.

Good job Jamin!

My own tree in my own yard, yes, I would do the way you explained.

In the real world, most people don't want an arborist to come out every year for the next 3 years, and in the end, add up those expenses and see that they spent a huge amount of money to fix one problem.

In my own yard, I'm doing that very thing you explained, with a Burr oak that has a v-crotch top.

I can think of a customer with a Chinese elm that I told them to call us in a year or two and we will make the final cut. We took out half of the leader we want to remove. Will they forget to call and will I forget them?.... maybe, actually, huh, that final cut should have happened this spring. Looks like we both forgot.

I did it in March or April on that Red Maple. I don't think it will sprout out much actually, I think the "energy" will go into the other leaders.

It will likely be on my mind and I will try to visit now and take an updated photo.

I agree pretty much, but what TomTreeMan said was interesting and possible.

 

[Tom Dunlap]

In my experience the cut is no bigger in real diameter now or later. The changes in the ratio come from the other leaders increasing in diameter. By doing a severe crown reduction the leader slows diameter growth and the collar/CODIT starts to grow. Getting the chemical and physical walls started ASAP will pay off in the long run.

Even if you don't go out to remove the leader the tree will be in much better condition with a reduced leader and no wound rather than a removed leader with a large wound.