FAQ

I gave my neighbor permission to have their "tree guy" trim a large branch from my 100 year old oak tree because it partially hung over their house. I came home to see that they climbed my tree using shoe spikes and that the tree had chunks removed from where they climbed up.I have often heard that this is not a good thing to do to a tree. Do I have a reason to be concerned and if so is there anything that can be done to reverse or prevent any further damage to the tree?

"Spiking" trees is an unacceptable practice. Unfortunately, it is too common in the tree care industry. The International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) and the Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA) disapprove of this practice.

Regarding your tree, I would have a certified arborist evaluate the tree to assess the damage to the tree. To maintain the health of the tree during this stress and periods of drought, I would consider fertilization, mulch, and keep well watered during dry periods. A tree of this age is most likely a large tree and could take up as much as 500 gallons of water per day. If you have any additional questions, please feel free to contact us for a consultation. Steve Skyer ISA Certified Arborist Bartlett Tree Experts