Can tree support systems save your bending tree? Could they possibly make the problem worse? What types of tree support systems are there, and which do you need?

If you’ve been wondering about these questions yourself, we can help. Specifically, we’ll describe the different types of systems available and how they work. Plus, we’ll help you make sure that you choose the right support system for your needs. 

This guide also includes warnings about how these systems can do more harm than good when not employed properly. Learn all you need to know about tree limb support by reading this guide.

How Do Tree Support Systems Help?

Often, a tree keeps bending or falling over because:

• It’s very young/freshly planted, so the roots haven’t grown deep enough to anchor the tree

• It’s planted in soil that’s too loose to hold it up

• Drainage problems are keeping the soil too wet

These problems are made worse by unfavorable weather, like heavy storms and high winds.

Some of these problems can be fixed without the need for support systems, though. For instance, loose soil can be correctly tamped down. And drainage problems can be solved with proper irrigation.

But if the roots are too shallow and the weather too unfavorable, tree support systems are a helpful, temporary solution. They anchor the tree until it grows strong/deep enough to anchor itself.

Do Tree Support Systems Always Solve the Problem?

As we said, tree support systems are meant as a temporary solution. If they are used too long, the tree becomes too dependant on them. Then, the trunk grows too thin to hold the tree up without support.

Besides this, the tree could have parasites or other health problems causing it to bend or fall. Tree support systems won’t help these issues.

That’s why you should always consult a competent and experienced arborist before attempting to use support systems.

Types of Tree Support Systems

Types of tree support systems include:

• Cables

• Braces

• Guying

• Staking

Tree cables and braces are helpful if a tree limb is too heavy. They prevent branches and leaders from spreading farther apart. If they spread too far, they make the weak tree unstable.

Staking uses cables to anchor the tree to stakes installed in the ground. Guying is similar except that the cables anchor the tree to a sturdy structure nearby.

Which Tree Support System Should You Use?

The right system for you depends on many factors, like the type, age, and condition of the tree. Therefore, this must be determined on a case-by-case basis. And the only one qualified to make this assessment is a certified arborist.

Get the Help You Need For a Bending or Failing Tree

As you can see, it’s always best that you recruit an expert arborist to save your failing or struggling tree. It’s also important that you don’t delay! The longer you wait, the lower the chances are that your tree will survive.

So if you need tree support systems for a weak, flimsy tree, contact Maguire Tree Care today. We’ll determine what solution you need and get started on it right away.