Very large Silver Maple too close to house for safety being removed just prior to ‘Irene’
My beloved New Brunswick was home to the legendary Joyce Kilmer Oak, celebrated in the famous poem he penned. A descendant of that majestic tree grows front of the LaborEducationCenter. The city is designated a “Tree City USA”. Of course we could not survive without trees. Urban life is greatly enhanced by trees; they filter away noise and pollution, buffer us from winter winds, cool us in the summer and create privacy and views. Trees can also be a force of destruction and danger.
As a small child my mother took me to nearby Johnson Park, one fine day I was in my carriage while she sat relaxing. Suddenly she a huge limb broke away from a tree overhead. She shoved my carriage out of the way in the nick of time. Much more recently after spending a lovely afternoon mowing the lawn half of an enormous, healthy looking silver maple smashed down on the lawn with such force the house shook and neighbors came running (images on my blog). By choosing preservation work curating wooden items one could say I’ve spent my life doing penance to the Goddesses and Gods of trees for sparing me.
The lesson for me is to be thoughtful about the trees you and be in awe of them; there is beauty and danger without warning. This is true even when professional arborists have worked on them. Use great care when choosing trees. Avoid species known to be brittle or to have shallow or weak roots, especially anywhere near roadways or structures. Understand the mature height and girth of the tree and its’ root system before planting. Do not plant it where it will later become oversized and create a risk or nuisance. Don’t plant trees under power lines or over septic, sewer, gutter drainage lines or other mechanical systems. If you aren’t sure where such things are check with your utility company or an expert before planting. Don’t plant trees that grow large too close to the pavement or over the roadway or parking areas, opting instead for trees recommended for tight spots. Avoid invasive species and trees that drop slippery or messy flowers or fruit where people will walk or park.
If you have a tree that creates a dangerous situation determine if pruning will help or if it needs to be removed. There are many books and on line sites that help one choose the best options and explain how to care for them. Smaller trees can be successfully managed by someone who can competently use a pruning hook or saw on a pole or a chain saw. Always follow all safety directions and never attempt to cut down a large limb unless you have enough experience to know exactly what you are doing. It can be very dangerous. Do not attempt to do heavy pruning or remove trees touching or above power lines under any circumstances. In some places the city, county or utility companies will prune trees in their right-of-way so check with them if a tree on the curb strip or near power lines needs attention. Professional tree services are costly and if you need one it is best to ask around, check references and get several prices. A good tree surgeon can evaluate your premises and make recommendations for the best treatment for all your trees. You will generally find that tending to larger trees or those near the house on a schedule will be more cost effective than waiting until there is a crisis and will minimize collateral damage should one fall.
It is risky to have a tree so big it could fall and do serious damage to the house so trees that are much higher than the house but close enough to fall on it are trees that should be evaluated by a professional for removal or cutting back as appropriate. Tall trees very close to the house are less likely to build up enough momentum to do serious damage but if they have big limbs over the house this is a concern; if they end up tipping over and just leaning on the house they will do damage and be costly to remove. Shade trees on the sunny side of the house and evergreens on the side of the prevailing winter winds are priceless for helping to control climate in the house and save energy.
Nothing is quite as lovely as a vibrant tree. Choose trees wisely, learn how to site and safely maintain the trees in your area and know when to call for assistance with maintenance to enjoy and share a truly greener life with the next generation.
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