Tree Service Erie PA crewCodominant stems, two trunks of similar size growing from one point, are common in maples and other shade trees. When bark gets trapped between them, the union is weaker than it looks.
Add snow, ice or wind, and that's often where the tree fails.
What a weak fork looks like
- A tight V shape instead of a U shape.
- Bark folded or pinched into the joint.
- A seam or crack running down from the union.
- Bulging wood on each side of the fork.
What can be done
| Situation | Option |
|---|---|
| Healthy tree, weak union | Cabling plus pruning |
| Small crack, sound wood | Rods and cables |
| Large crack or decay | Removal |
What cabling can't do
Cabling reduces the chance of a split but doesn't make a tree risk-free. It won't fix decay, root problems or a tree that's already failing.
If a crack opens at a fork, keep people and cars clear and get it looked at quickly.
Need it fixed?
Tree Cabling & Bracing across Erie County
A local Erie crew for removals, trimming, stumps and storm work, with phones answered around the clock.
Frequently asked questions
Can a split tree heal itself?
Trees don't heal cracks the way skin heals. They wall them off, but the weakness remains.
Is a tree with two trunks always dangerous?
No. Many are fine. The concern is a tight union with included bark or visible cracks.
How long do cables last?
Many systems last years, but they should be checked periodically as the tree grows.
Is cabling expensive?
It's often less than a large removal, but it depends on the tree. We'll explain both options.
