Multiple Tree Trunk Cracks

dmileusnich

We have a mature tree in our yard next to the house has had three separate cracks down the base the of the trunk separate equally around the tree (120 degree separate between them). When the wind blows, each of the three sections now sway independently in the breeze. I'm assuming that we need to have the tree removed from a hazard perspective. Thoughts?

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Eric Frei

Anyone removing the tree would want to do a rodeo round-up cabling of sorts prior to climbing etc.

Some would argue bolting and cabling to save. I don't know the species etc but unless it's something real rare, important or historical I'd be axing it alright, and replacing with something new.

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Gunslinger

EKKA, it looks like a nice tree to me. What would be your reason for removal? Is it close to failure?

dmileusnich

The tree is split at the base into three sections. Each is moving independently from each other in the breeze. I think it's a Bradford Pear which I found out last for around 20-25 years. It was planted no later than 1991 when the house was built. From what I'm reading online, it looks like they don't recommend these anymore because it's known for this issue.

TrevMcRev

You are right there. This species has an inherent problem with their structure of having such tight "V" or compression forks.

Failure of stems in this species is very common.

Yours has partly failed already.

Yes it could be cabled & rod braced, & pruned to reduce risk of complete failure. See before & after example below.





It would likely cost similar to total removal.

Up to you if you value the tree enough to do so depending how fond of it you are and what kind of part it plays in your landscape, otherwise remove & replace.

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