Tree Cabling

Cabling a tree is a method used to save a hazardous tree that has significant historic or landscape value. It can also be used to reduce structural weakness and reduce the chance of failure on a healthy tree. Properly installed it can prolong the life of an otherwise desirable tree, but are not advisable for every situation.

Cabling involves the installation of steel cables between major limbs to reduce the strain and help support the tree. Cables restrict the distance that branches can move in relation to each other. This procedure will be done following the National Arborist Association Cabling Standards ANSI A300 (Part 3) 2000. Cables, eyebolts and other hardware come in various sizes and types. There are 2 types of cables currently available. One is more flexible and easier to manage. The second is stronger and more rigid. A Rayal Tree Care Company specialist will select the appropriate hardware needed for your specific tree.

The ANSI A300 Tree Support Systems Standards recognize three basic cabling types (cabling systems should be designed using one or more of these types):

• Direct: Direct cabling consists of a single cable between two tree parts, e.g., two limbs, two stems, or a trunk and a limb.
• Triangular: Triangular cabling consists of connecting tree parts in combination of threes. This method should be preferred, when maximum support is required.
• Box: Box cabling consists of connecting four or more tree parts in a closed series. This system should be used only when minimal direct support is needed.