Tree Cabling: Is Tree Cabling A Good Idea?

What is Tree Cabling?

            Tree cabling is a system that is installed into trees to help support the structural integrity during heavy winds and storms. Tree cabling uses extra high strength cables to hold a tree branch in place. This process helps create support systems for weak branches, and it can guide a tree’s growth in the right direction. It uses cables to stabilize a tree’s physical structure in cases where the tree can no longer support its own weight. Cabling cannot be used to keep unhealthy, dying trees from falling apart. Instead, it’s used to assist healthy, but oddly shaped or slightly injured trees maintain their structure. When you cable a tree, you can avoid long-term problems like inefficient growth and dangerously weak branches. Tree cabling is a common solution that can help many homeowners and keep them and their trees safe in the long run.

The Pros of Tree Cabling

Many questions around tree cabling include Is tree cabling a good idea? Does cabling a tree really work? Does cabling hurt a tree? If caught early, structural issues can usually be solved through strategic pruning. However, after a tree has matured most structural issues will require tree cabling or bracing. Some reasons trees need cabling include prevention, restoration, mitigation.

Cabling Trees Together

            It is normal for trees to appear as if they are leaning, or favoring, one side over the other. The trunk of a tree curves because of the tree’s ability to adapt over time to its changing surroundings and access to sunlight. The tree’s root system will grow to accommodate this off-center weight distribution. However, if a tree suddenly begins to lean, starts leaning after a storm, or if the soil around the tree is cracked, your tree may have a structural issue that requires a support system.

Cabling a Split Tree

            Splitting or cracking in the trunk of your tree is a sign of potentially serious structural issues and may require a support system. If you see a crack in your tree’s trunk, call an arborist as soon as possible to get it checked out. After learning about cabling and assessing your trees, you may ask yourself: “How do I find a tree cabling service near me?” At RTEC we provide tree cabling services that are done safely and professionally.  

Before storm season approaches, go out and look at your trees. If you spot any of these signs schedule an appointment with an Arborist immediately to see if you need a cabling/bracing support system.

For your safety, and the safety of your tree, it is important to have your tree’s cabling system inspected yearly by a Certified Arborist. This is to ensure the system is safe and intact.