The Case of the Terminal Bud

Several couple whiles ago Dan asked folk to make suggestions for blog topics. I chose one to start and so it continues. I have chosen to lump another couple together………. The hazards associated with topping a tree and why choose us as opposed to the guy walking down the street knocking on doors. It is a fact that our industry or rather the treatment of trees on private property is not regulated. We are regulated to death but the treatment of our trees is not. During times of high lay-offs and subsequent unemployment the tree care industry is one that gets raided so to speak. Many upstart tree services are operated by individuals simply trying to put food on the table. Most are physically able but lack the scientific knowledge to do it correctly. Many do not carry the proper insurance to protect you and yours and Sole Proprietors do not have to carry workers compensation. Any resultant damage or injury would obligate your homeowners insurance to compensate. Not at all a good situation. As for your poor trees…………..more tree toppers are born during these economic down turns. This indiscriminate, internodal “hacking” eliminates the all too important terminal buds at the end of each branch. These vital critters are critical in a tree’s messaging system. From these beauties stem each year’s new growth and they are the ones that look down to the root system (sort of) and tell the rest of the vascular system to wake up in the spring. With this in mind, looking at the trees that were topped last year, what is going to trigger the sap to flow, buds to swell, and leaves to expand to begin producing carbohydrates so the tree can perpetuate the process ???????? It can’t; not until it starts to push out watersprouts in a panic, below the topped cuts which in turn begins the die back to the new watersprouts. The new year’s growth under these conditions is the weakest wood that a tree can make and is therefore more prone to storm damage. Hire the established, insured professional that trims to ISA and ANSI standards. Your property will be better for it. Thanks and see you out yonder. Tim