Cabling and Bracing
Often trees have structural defects that can lead to major branch or limb failure. Insufficient root development, or girdling roots can often result in trees leaning or falling over. Cabling involves installing steel cables between major limbs to reduce the strain and help support the tree. Cabling also helps reduce stress damage from high winds and excess ice or snow weight. For large, weak, or split crotches, bracing is used to give direct support and reduce twisting strain on the tree. A metal rod is inserted through the crotch and two more cables are placed above it.