Kramer Tree Specialists’ tip of the week…
Occasionally, during initial visits to the properties of potential clients, we have observed larger trees with “gaff holes” punched through the bark by climbing spurs. Wounds made by climbing spurs are deep into the wood and open up entry points for wood decay fungi, canker and vascular diseases (e.g. Dutch Elm Disease, Oak Wilt).
Please be advised that this is an injurious practice on trees to be retained. Climbing spurs should only be used to ascend trees that are to be removed, or perhaps in an emergency situation (e.g. aerial rescue, hazardous tree, etc.)
Leave a comment if you’ve seen this on your trees before…