May 7, 2025 • 15 mins
In this Wednesday episode of Talking Trees, we explore the principles and practices of dynamic tree cabling, a system designed to enhance tree stability while allowing natural movement and growth.
We discuss:
- The difference between dynamic and static cabling systems, and when dynamic solutions are most appropriate
- Key installation principles such as placement height, tension calibration, and selection of appropriate materials
- How dynamic systems absorb energy and reduce mechanical stress, helping trees maintain structural integrity in wind or heavy foliage conditions
- The importance of documentation, regular inspections, and timely replacements to ensure continued system performance
- Relevant legal standards, qualification requirements, and responsibilities outlined in arboricultural safety guidelines and industry protocols
Dynamic cabling isn’t just about holding a tree together—it’s about supporting it to move, adapt, and thrive safely in its environment.
Background information:
- SPPKA02007_VAZBY_VEREJNA OPONENTURA_II_cista verze pro vystaveni.pdf
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Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Roger (00:02):
Talking Trees with Lillian Jad.
Welcome to this episode.
Today we're delving into thecrucial area of tree
stabilization standards,focusing on their importance in
urban environments.
We'll explore insights fromEuropean Standard 02-2022, which
highlights techniques for theinstallation and maintenance of
(00:23):
tree crown stabilization systems.
Let's jump in.
Jad (00:30):
All right, welcome back to the Deep Dive.
Today we're going to be talkingabout dynamic tree crown
stabilization systems and I know, as a professional tree worker,
this is probably somethingthat's already on your radar,
but we're going to go.
We're going to do a deep divetoday into some of the nuances,
some of the nitty gritty.
We've got a new Europeanstandard document we're going to
be referencing, and joining metoday is well, he's a veteran in
(00:51):
the field, really knows hisstuff.
Lilly (00:54):
Happy to be here and, yeah, excited to dig into this
stuff.
I love the practicalapplications of all this.
Jad (01:00):
Yeah, and this is a very practical topic.
I mean, when we talk about treecrown stabilization, it's all
about extending the life ofthose really valuable trees,
right, those important trees.
It's risk management.
We want to protect people,property and, of course, the
tree itself.
Lilly (01:15):
Right, exactly, and you know it's not just about sort of
imposing our will on the tree.
It's about understanding thetree's own natural processes,
you know, figuring out where itsvulnerabilities are and then
using those systems to reallysupport the tree in the best way
possible.
Jad (01:31):
It's about working with the tree, not against it, and
that's where I think dynamicsystems really shine.
They're not about rigidlylocking things in place right.
It's more about kind of guidingand supporting.
So what is it?
What's the core concept behinddynamic systems?
Lilly (01:48):
Yeah, it's kind of like you know.
Think of shock absorbers right.
You have them in your car.
They're meant to dampen theenergy, let the car move a
little bit.
Same thing with trees.
Right, we don't want to justrigidly brace everything.
We want to allow for somemovement, some sway, but reduce
the chance of something actuallyfailing, you know, during a big
windstorm.
Jad (02:06):
So it's controlled flexibility.
Lilly (02:08):
Controlled flexibility exactly.
Jad (02:10):
Now looking at this European standard, they talk
about materials like polyester,polypropylene, polyamide.
What are some of the things weshould be thinking about when
choosing between those materials?
Lilly (02:19):
Yeah, that's a great question and the standard's got
a really cool table that breaksdown the properties of each
material.
It's almost like a cheat sheet,so like if you're looking at
polyester, it's fantastic for UVresistance, really good
strength, especially undertension, but if you need to tie
knots, that's when its strengthreally drops off.
Jad (02:38):
Interesting.
So knots are a no-no withpolyester.
Basically.
Lilly (02:42):
Ideally, yeah, you want to try to avoid them if you can
Use other connection methods, ifpossible.
Jad (02:47):
Okay, what about polypropylene?
What are its strengths andweaknesses?
Lilly (02:50):
Polypropylene.
It's practically immune tomoisture, but it's not a fan of
the sun.
Uv will degrade it prettyquickly, so you got to make sure
it's treated with a UVprotectant.
Usually they blacken it forthat reason.
Jad (03:02):
So it needs a little sunscreen basically.
Lilly (03:04):
Yeah, a little sunscreen.
And then finally you gotpolyamide, which kind of sits in
between polyester andpolypropylene.
It's got decent UV resistance,some stretch.
Jad (03:13):
Kind of the middle child, the jack of all trades.
Lilly (03:15):
Yeah, that's a good way to put it.
But you know, no matter whichmaterial you choose, these
systems aren't you know, set itand forget it.
They need regular checkups,adjustments, just like, you know
, a finely turned instrument.
Jad (03:26):
You've got to keep everything in harmony Exactly so
.
We've chosen our material.
Now how do we actually getthese systems up into the tree?
What's the installation processlook like?
Lilly (03:35):
Well, the standard really emphasizes following the
manufacturer's instructions, andthat's for good reason.
You know each system is alittle bit different, but there
are some universal bestpractices.
First off, make sure there'senough slack in the rope to
allow for natural movement andgrowth.
The standard's got a nicevisual figure 12, that shows
what that should look like.
It can be really helpful tohave that visual in mind when
(03:58):
you're up in the tree.
Jad (03:59):
I bet those visuals are super valuable when you're, you
know, 50 feet up in the air.
Lilly (04:04):
Yeah.
Jad (04:04):
What else is crucial during that installation process?
Lilly (04:08):
Oh, protecting the rope from friction, that's huge.
I mean think squirrels, right,they love to gnaw on things, and
even a little bit of wear andtear can really compromise the
system over time.
So you got to think about thatand then make sure you leave
enough rope for adjustments.
Trees, they grow, they change.
Jad (04:29):
Now I was reading about using multiple systems in a
single tree.
Is that something you encounteroften?
Lilly (04:34):
Yeah, sometimes a tree just needs a little extra
support, right?
Its condition might require acombination of stabilization
methods.
It's like tailoring a suit youknow providing support where
it's needed most.
But this does highlight theneed for careful planning.
You really got to use yourjudgment.
Make sure you're not creating atangled mess in the crown.
Jad (04:52):
Right, you want a symphony of support, not a cacophony,
Exactly.
And speaking of that delicatebalance, I noticed the standard
mentions different types ofsystems breaking prevention,
damage prevention.
And then there's this braidedsystem.
What can you tell us aboutthose?
Lilly (05:07):
Yeah, so breaking prevention, that's your
frontline defense, right?
It's designed to absorb theforces that could cause a branch
to snap.
So really about reinforcingthose weak points.
Jad (05:18):
So it's all about preventing those catastrophic
failures.
What about damage prevention?
How does that work?
Lilly (05:25):
Damage prevention is a little different.
It allows for a bit moremovement, but it's designed to
catch the branch if it does fail, sort of like a safety net.
So you're minimizing the impactif the worst does happen.
Jad (05:37):
So you've got a backup plan , exactly.
And what about this braidedsystem?
Sounds kind of interesting.
Lilly (05:41):
Yeah, the braided system is pretty cool.
They use it to secure the topsof trees or branches where you
don't have a good anchor point.
It's kind of like aself-supporting structure.
The tree is almost huggingitself, using its own form for
stability.
Jad (05:53):
That's pretty amazing.
Now you've been doing this foryears, You've got a ton of
experience.
Are there any particular brandsor systems that really stand
out to you?
Lilly (06:02):
You know I've tried my fair share over the years and
some definitely rise to the top.
The European Standard actuallyhas a table Table 1, that lists
some of the most common brandsused across Europe.
Jad (06:13):
Oh, perfect, let's dive into those brands.
Our listeners are always on thelookout for reliable systems.
You know, tools they can trust.
Lilly (06:21):
Okay, so some of the names on that list are Arboline,
gemini, arco, glycine Ropes.
Then you have Boa, cobra, gaifa, treesave.
Each one's got its strengths.
It's kind of like choosing theright climbing rope it depends
on what you're doing.
Jad (06:35):
Okay, lots of familiar names there and I bet you've got
some good stories from usingthese systems out in the field.
Lilly (06:41):
Oh yeah, I remember one time using the Cobra system.
It was this massive oak treeand it had a split fork.
The main trunk had divided nearthe base.
One of those forks was leaningand it was leaning towards this
historic building.
Talk about a stressfulsituation.
Jad (06:55):
Oh, I bet A piece of history on the line.
That sounds like a prettydelicate operation.
Lilly (07:00):
It was.
The access was tricky, thebranches were incredibly heavy,
but we managed to install amultipoint Cobra system.
So we had multiple cablesstrategically placed throughout
the crown, all working togetherwith shock absorbers to kind of
redistribute the weight, reducethe strain.
Jad (07:16):
So you basically gave this tree a custom designed
suspension system.
Lilly (07:19):
Exactly, exactly, and you know it's stories like that
that really remind me of anotherpoint in the standard.
They emphasize the importanceof using systems with clear,
easy to understand instructions,because when you're dealing
with these kinds of situations,you know complex installations
potentially dangerous.
You don't want any room formisinterpretation.
Jad (07:39):
Right, clear instructions are key for safety and making
sure the system actually worksas intended.
Lilly (07:44):
Exactly.
Jad (07:44):
What about when we're dealing with those really old
trees, those veteran trees?
Are there specific brands thatare particularly well suited for
those situations?
Lilly (07:53):
Oh, absolutely.
If you're working with thosewise old giants, Glycine Ropes
is fantastic.
They really understand theunique needs of veteran trees.
Jad (08:00):
It's like they have a special touch for those elder
statesmen of the forest.
Lilly (08:03):
They do.
Their systems are designed tominimize stress on the tree's
structure.
They provide support withoutbeing too restrictive.
You know, remember those oldertrees.
They've been through a lot.
They might have internalweaknesses, decay that we can't
even see.
So a gentle approach is key.
Jad (08:22):
Right, it's about providing that helping hand.
So we've talked about CobraLeistein.
Are there any other brands thatyou know are worth mentioning
that really stand out to you?
Lilly (08:32):
Yeah, a few more.
So BOA has this really coolfeature.
They have an indicator threadwoven right into the rope.
The system gets overloaded,that thread breaks.
Jad (08:41):
No way.
Lilly (08:41):
Yeah, it's a built-in warning system.
Jad (08:44):
That's so smart Like the tree can tell you when it's
struggling.
What about GAFA Blue?
Lilly (08:49):
GAFA Blue.
Well, they're known forflexibility Made of polyamide,
which is great for short setupswhere you need maximum movement.
But there's a catch Uh-ohPolyamide can change length when
wet, so you've got to becareful with that.
Jad (09:02):
Got it, so not the best choice.
If there's a chance, it'll getsoaked a lot.
Lilly (09:05):
Exactly Now, gafa also offers a polyester rope GAFA
Green for more standardsituations, and they include a
stem protector with it.
Jad (09:16):
Nice.
Lilly (09:17):
Definitely Boa.
For instance, they're known fortheir innovative braided
systems, perfect for thosesituations where you don't have
a good anchor point.
Remember we were talking aboutthe self-retention system.
Jad (09:26):
Yeah, like the tree is giving itself a hug.
Lilly (09:28):
Exactly.
Boa systems are also reallyeasy to install and adjust
Always a plus.
Jad (09:34):
Efficiency is key when you're up in a tree.
How about Cobra?
What's their specialty?
What's their specialty.
Lilly (09:38):
Cobra systems are known for their strength.
They're the go-to if you needmaximum support.
You know, maybe a branch isthreatening a structure.
There's a high risk of failure.
Jad (09:48):
So heavyweight situations, cobra's your go-to, got it.
Lilly (09:51):
And then there's GAFA.
They're a German company, beenaround for over 70 years.
They produce really highquality tree care products.
Jad (09:59):
Wow, that's quite a legacy.
Yeah, what makes GayFestSystems stand out?
Lilly (10:03):
They pay a lot of attention to detail and they're
really committed tosustainability.
They try to use environmentallyfriendly materials and
processes whenever possible.
Jad (10:12):
So they're thinking about the health of the tree and the
health of the planet.
Lilly (10:20):
Exactly.
You know, what I'm seeing hereis all of these companies,
whether they've been around fordecades or they're just starting
out.
They're united by this passionfor innovation and this deep
respect for trees.
Jad (10:27):
That's right A love for trees, a desire to protect them.
Now, with so many brands andsystems out there, it can be
kind of overwhelming to choosethe right one.
So what are some keyconsiderations that our
listeners should keep in mindwhen making that decision?
Lilly (10:42):
Well, the first thing you got to do is assess the tree
itself.
You know what species is it,how old is it, are there any
visible signs of weakness ordecay?
Jad (10:51):
So it's like giving the tree a checkup before
prescribing the treatment plan.
Lilly (10:55):
Exactly, and you also got to think about the surrounding
environment.
Is the tree exposed to strongwinds, heavy snow loads?
Are there any structures ortargets nearby that need
protection?
Jad (11:06):
Right Understanding the context, the forces that are
acting on the tree, and then youknow, if something were to fail
, what are the potentialconsequences.
Lilly (11:15):
Absolutely, and once you have a good grasp of the tree
and its environment, then youcan start narrowing down your
options based on those specificneeds.
Do you need to prevent a branchfrom breaking?
Are you looking to minimizedamage if a branch does fail?
Jad (11:29):
So you're matching the system to the desired outcome.
Lilly (11:32):
Right.
And of course budget alwayscomes into play.
You know the availability ofmaterials, the expertise in your
area.
Those are practicalconsiderations.
Jad (11:40):
Right, you don't want to choose a system that's
impossible to obtain or install.
Lilly (11:44):
Exactly, and don't be afraid to reach out to
manufacturers, experiencedarborists you know they can be a
great resource when you'retrying to figure out what's best
for the tree.
Jad (11:52):
Right Collaboration is key in this field.
We can all learn from eachother's experiences.
Lilly (11:56):
Exactly, you know, this whole conversation really brings
up a really important pointabout tree care in general.
Jad (12:02):
I'm listening.
Lilly (12:03):
It's about, you know, shifting our perspective.
We need to move from simplytreating symptoms to really
understanding those underlyingcauses.
You know the root of theproblem.
Jad (12:13):
It's about looking beyond the surface, digging deeper to
understand what's really goingon with the tree right.
Lilly (12:18):
Right, these systems are amazing, but they're not magic
bullets.
They're part of a largerholistic approach.
Pruning, soil management, pestcontrol all of that plays a role
.
Jad (12:29):
Right, it's about seeing the tree as a whole, as a
complex living organism.
Lilly (12:34):
Yeah.
Jad (12:34):
Recognizing all those interconnections.
Lilly (12:36):
Exactly.
Jad (12:38):
It's a reminder that our role isn't just about fixing
problems, but it's aboutfostering health and resilience.
Lilly (12:44):
I couldn't agree more.
Jad (12:46):
Wow, we've covered a lot of ground today, talked about the
why, the how, the who of dynamictree crown stabilization, so
let's bring it all home for ourlisteners out there.
You know what are some keytakeaways, things they can
really apply in their own work.
Lilly (13:00):
You know, if I could leave everyone with just one
thought, it's that tree crownstabilization.
It's a tool, right, it's onepiece of the puzzle.
It's not the whole picture.
It's part of a bigger, a moreholistic way of looking at tree
care.
Jad (13:16):
Right, it's about seeing the whole tree, the whole
environment, not getting tunnelvision on just a single branch
or a problem you think you see.
Lilly (13:23):
Exactly, you can do amazing things with these
systems, but they work best whenthey're combined with other
best practices Pruning, soilmanagement, you know, pest
control all of that's important.
Jad (13:36):
Right.
So it's kind of like a symphonyright.
You need all those instrumentsworking together to create that
beautiful sound.
Lilly (13:41):
Yeah, that's a great analogy and just like a
conductor needs to know eachinstrument, you know their
strengths and weaknesses.
We need to understand eachindividual tree and the
environment it's living in.
Jad (13:54):
So it really comes down to continuous learning, right,
staying curious, askingquestions, you know, always
looking for new information, newways of approaching these
challenges.
Lilly (14:04):
Oh, absolutely this field .
It's always changing.
There's new research, newtechnology.
We've got to stay ahead of thecurve if we want to give those
trees the best possible care.
Jad (14:14):
Yeah, knowledge is power.
Yeah, Especially when you'redealing with living breathing
organisms like trees.
Lilly (14:19):
I couldn't agree more.
And you know, beyond all that,beyond the technical stuff,
there's something else that'sreally important.
Jad (14:25):
Okay, I'm intrigued.
What's the secret ingredienthere?
Lilly (14:28):
It's approaching each tree with a sense of respect, of
wonder, even these trees, theyhave so much to teach us if
we're willing to listen.
Jad (14:38):
That's beautifully said.
It reminds me that we're notjust working on these trees,
we're willing to listen.
That's beautifully said.
It reminds me that we're notjust working on these trees,
we're working with them.
We're partners in ensuringtheir health and their longevity
Exactly.
Lilly (14:46):
And when you, when you approach the work with that
mindset, it stops being just ajob, you know it becomes
something more, something muchmore meaningful.
Jad (14:55):
Well said, and I think that's a that's a perfect note
to end on.
Thank you so much for joiningus on this deep dive into
dynamic tree crown stabilizationsystems.
We hope you've learnedsomething new today and maybe
just maybe you've come away witha renewed appreciation for
these incredible trees allaround us.
Lilly (15:13):
Absolutely.
Stay curious out there and keepclimbing.
Roger (15:21):
Thanks for tuning in.
We hope this episode shed somelight on the critical standards
and practices around treestabilization, especially for
urban areas.
Understanding these guidelineshelps keep trees healthy and
safe in our communities.
If you found this episodeinsightful, consider sharing it
with your friends.
Until next time, stay rooted inknowledge and keep nurturing
(15:42):
those trees.
Talking Trees with Lillian Jad.
Welcome to this episode.
Today we're delving into thecrucial area of tree
stabilization standards,focusing on their importance in
urban environments.
We'll explore insights fromEuropean Standard 02-2022, which
highlights techniques for theinstallation and maintenance of
(00:23):
tree crown stabilization systems.
Let's jump in.
Jad (00:30):
All right, welcome back to the Deep Dive.
Today we're going to be talkingabout dynamic tree crown
stabilization systems and I know, as a professional tree worker,
this is probably somethingthat's already on your radar,
but we're going to go.
We're going to do a deep divetoday into some of the nuances,
some of the nitty gritty.
We've got a new Europeanstandard document we're going to
be referencing, and joining metoday is well, he's a veteran in
(00:51):
the field, really knows hisstuff.
Lilly (00:54):
Happy to be here and, yeah, excited to dig into this
stuff.
I love the practicalapplications of all this.
Jad (01:00):
Yeah, and this is a very practical topic.
I mean, when we talk about treecrown stabilization, it's all
about extending the life ofthose really valuable trees,
right, those important trees.
It's risk management.
We want to protect people,property and, of course, the
tree itself.
Lilly (01:15):
Right, exactly, and you know it's not just about sort of
imposing our will on the tree.
It's about understanding thetree's own natural processes,
you know, figuring out where itsvulnerabilities are and then
using those systems to reallysupport the tree in the best way
possible.
Jad (01:31):
It's about working with the tree, not against it, and
that's where I think dynamicsystems really shine.
They're not about rigidlylocking things in place right.
It's more about kind of guidingand supporting.
So what is it?
What's the core concept behinddynamic systems?
Lilly (01:48):
Yeah, it's kind of like you know.
Think of shock absorbers right.
You have them in your car.
They're meant to dampen theenergy, let the car move a
little bit.
Same thing with trees.
Right, we don't want to justrigidly brace everything.
We want to allow for somemovement, some sway, but reduce
the chance of something actuallyfailing, you know, during a big
windstorm.
Jad (02:06):
So it's controlled flexibility.
Lilly (02:08):
Controlled flexibility exactly.
Jad (02:10):
Now looking at this European standard, they talk
about materials like polyester,polypropylene, polyamide.
What are some of the things weshould be thinking about when
choosing between those materials?
Lilly (02:19):
Yeah, that's a great question and the standard's got
a really cool table that breaksdown the properties of each
material.
It's almost like a cheat sheet,so like if you're looking at
polyester, it's fantastic for UVresistance, really good
strength, especially undertension, but if you need to tie
knots, that's when its strengthreally drops off.
Jad (02:38):
Interesting.
So knots are a no-no withpolyester.
Basically.
Lilly (02:42):
Ideally, yeah, you want to try to avoid them if you can
Use other connection methods, ifpossible.
Jad (02:47):
Okay, what about polypropylene?
What are its strengths andweaknesses?
Lilly (02:50):
Polypropylene.
It's practically immune tomoisture, but it's not a fan of
the sun.
Uv will degrade it prettyquickly, so you got to make sure
it's treated with a UVprotectant.
Usually they blacken it forthat reason.
Jad (03:02):
So it needs a little sunscreen basically.
Lilly (03:04):
Yeah, a little sunscreen.
And then finally you gotpolyamide, which kind of sits in
between polyester andpolypropylene.
It's got decent UV resistance,some stretch.
Jad (03:13):
Kind of the middle child, the jack of all trades.
Lilly (03:15):
Yeah, that's a good way to put it.
But you know, no matter whichmaterial you choose, these
systems aren't you know, set itand forget it.
They need regular checkups,adjustments, just like, you know
, a finely turned instrument.
Jad (03:26):
You've got to keep everything in harmony Exactly so
.
We've chosen our material.
Now how do we actually getthese systems up into the tree?
What's the installation processlook like?
Lilly (03:35):
Well, the standard really emphasizes following the
manufacturer's instructions, andthat's for good reason.
You know each system is alittle bit different, but there
are some universal bestpractices.
First off, make sure there'senough slack in the rope to
allow for natural movement andgrowth.
The standard's got a nicevisual figure 12, that shows
what that should look like.
It can be really helpful tohave that visual in mind when
(03:58):
you're up in the tree.
Jad (03:59):
I bet those visuals are super valuable when you're, you
know, 50 feet up in the air.
Lilly (04:04):
Yeah.
Jad (04:04):
What else is crucial during that installation process?
Lilly (04:08):
Oh, protecting the rope from friction, that's huge.
I mean think squirrels, right,they love to gnaw on things, and
even a little bit of wear andtear can really compromise the
system over time.
So you got to think about thatand then make sure you leave
enough rope for adjustments.
Trees, they grow, they change.
Jad (04:29):
Now I was reading about using multiple systems in a
single tree.
Is that something you encounteroften?
Lilly (04:34):
Yeah, sometimes a tree just needs a little extra
support, right?
Its condition might require acombination of stabilization
methods.
It's like tailoring a suit youknow providing support where
it's needed most.
But this does highlight theneed for careful planning.
You really got to use yourjudgment.
Make sure you're not creating atangled mess in the crown.
Jad (04:52):
Right, you want a symphony of support, not a cacophony,
Exactly.
And speaking of that delicatebalance, I noticed the standard
mentions different types ofsystems breaking prevention,
damage prevention.
And then there's this braidedsystem.
What can you tell us aboutthose?
Lilly (05:07):
Yeah, so breaking prevention, that's your
frontline defense, right?
It's designed to absorb theforces that could cause a branch
to snap.
So really about reinforcingthose weak points.
Jad (05:18):
So it's all about preventing those catastrophic
failures.
What about damage prevention?
How does that work?
Lilly (05:25):
Damage prevention is a little different.
It allows for a bit moremovement, but it's designed to
catch the branch if it does fail, sort of like a safety net.
So you're minimizing the impactif the worst does happen.
Jad (05:37):
So you've got a backup plan , exactly.
And what about this braidedsystem?
Sounds kind of interesting.
Lilly (05:41):
Yeah, the braided system is pretty cool.
They use it to secure the topsof trees or branches where you
don't have a good anchor point.
It's kind of like aself-supporting structure.
The tree is almost huggingitself, using its own form for
stability.
Jad (05:53):
That's pretty amazing.
Now you've been doing this foryears, You've got a ton of
experience.
Are there any particular brandsor systems that really stand
out to you?
Lilly (06:02):
You know I've tried my fair share over the years and
some definitely rise to the top.
The European Standard actuallyhas a table Table 1, that lists
some of the most common brandsused across Europe.
Jad (06:13):
Oh, perfect, let's dive into those brands.
Our listeners are always on thelookout for reliable systems.
You know, tools they can trust.
Lilly (06:21):
Okay, so some of the names on that list are Arboline,
gemini, arco, glycine Ropes.
Then you have Boa, cobra, gaifa, treesave.
Each one's got its strengths.
It's kind of like choosing theright climbing rope it depends
on what you're doing.
Jad (06:35):
Okay, lots of familiar names there and I bet you've got
some good stories from usingthese systems out in the field.
Lilly (06:41):
Oh yeah, I remember one time using the Cobra system.
It was this massive oak treeand it had a split fork.
The main trunk had divided nearthe base.
One of those forks was leaningand it was leaning towards this
historic building.
Talk about a stressfulsituation.
Jad (06:55):
Oh, I bet A piece of history on the line.
That sounds like a prettydelicate operation.
Lilly (07:00):
It was.
The access was tricky, thebranches were incredibly heavy,
but we managed to install amultipoint Cobra system.
So we had multiple cablesstrategically placed throughout
the crown, all working togetherwith shock absorbers to kind of
redistribute the weight, reducethe strain.
Jad (07:16):
So you basically gave this tree a custom designed
suspension system.
Lilly (07:19):
Exactly, exactly, and you know it's stories like that
that really remind me of anotherpoint in the standard.
They emphasize the importanceof using systems with clear,
easy to understand instructions,because when you're dealing
with these kinds of situations,you know complex installations
potentially dangerous.
You don't want any room formisinterpretation.
Jad (07:39):
Right, clear instructions are key for safety and making
sure the system actually worksas intended.
Lilly (07:44):
Exactly.
Jad (07:44):
What about when we're dealing with those really old
trees, those veteran trees?
Are there specific brands thatare particularly well suited for
those situations?
Lilly (07:53):
Oh, absolutely.
If you're working with thosewise old giants, Glycine Ropes
is fantastic.
They really understand theunique needs of veteran trees.
Jad (08:00):
It's like they have a special touch for those elder
statesmen of the forest.
Lilly (08:03):
They do.
Their systems are designed tominimize stress on the tree's
structure.
They provide support withoutbeing too restrictive.
You know, remember those oldertrees.
They've been through a lot.
They might have internalweaknesses, decay that we can't
even see.
So a gentle approach is key.
Jad (08:22):
Right, it's about providing that helping hand.
So we've talked about CobraLeistein.
Are there any other brands thatyou know are worth mentioning
that really stand out to you?
Lilly (08:32):
Yeah, a few more.
So BOA has this really coolfeature.
They have an indicator threadwoven right into the rope.
The system gets overloaded,that thread breaks.
Jad (08:41):
No way.
Lilly (08:41):
Yeah, it's a built-in warning system.
Jad (08:44):
That's so smart Like the tree can tell you when it's
struggling.
What about GAFA Blue?
Lilly (08:49):
GAFA Blue.
Well, they're known forflexibility Made of polyamide,
which is great for short setupswhere you need maximum movement.
But there's a catch Uh-ohPolyamide can change length when
wet, so you've got to becareful with that.
Jad (09:02):
Got it, so not the best choice.
If there's a chance, it'll getsoaked a lot.
Lilly (09:05):
Exactly Now, gafa also offers a polyester rope GAFA
Green for more standardsituations, and they include a
stem protector with it.
Jad (09:16):
Nice.
Lilly (09:17):
Definitely Boa.
For instance, they're known fortheir innovative braided
systems, perfect for thosesituations where you don't have
a good anchor point.
Remember we were talking aboutthe self-retention system.
Jad (09:26):
Yeah, like the tree is giving itself a hug.
Lilly (09:28):
Exactly.
Boa systems are also reallyeasy to install and adjust
Always a plus.
Jad (09:34):
Efficiency is key when you're up in a tree.
How about Cobra?
What's their specialty?
What's their specialty.
Lilly (09:38):
Cobra systems are known for their strength.
They're the go-to if you needmaximum support.
You know, maybe a branch isthreatening a structure.
There's a high risk of failure.
Jad (09:48):
So heavyweight situations, cobra's your go-to, got it.
Lilly (09:51):
And then there's GAFA.
They're a German company, beenaround for over 70 years.
They produce really highquality tree care products.
Jad (09:59):
Wow, that's quite a legacy.
Yeah, what makes GayFestSystems stand out?
Lilly (10:03):
They pay a lot of attention to detail and they're
really committed tosustainability.
They try to use environmentallyfriendly materials and
processes whenever possible.
Jad (10:12):
So they're thinking about the health of the tree and the
health of the planet.
Lilly (10:20):
Exactly.
You know, what I'm seeing hereis all of these companies,
whether they've been around fordecades or they're just starting
out.
They're united by this passionfor innovation and this deep
respect for trees.
Jad (10:27):
That's right A love for trees, a desire to protect them.
Now, with so many brands andsystems out there, it can be
kind of overwhelming to choosethe right one.
So what are some keyconsiderations that our
listeners should keep in mindwhen making that decision?
Lilly (10:42):
Well, the first thing you got to do is assess the tree
itself.
You know what species is it,how old is it, are there any
visible signs of weakness ordecay?
Jad (10:51):
So it's like giving the tree a checkup before
prescribing the treatment plan.
Lilly (10:55):
Exactly, and you also got to think about the surrounding
environment.
Is the tree exposed to strongwinds, heavy snow loads?
Are there any structures ortargets nearby that need
protection?
Jad (11:06):
Right Understanding the context, the forces that are
acting on the tree, and then youknow, if something were to fail
, what are the potentialconsequences.
Lilly (11:15):
Absolutely, and once you have a good grasp of the tree
and its environment, then youcan start narrowing down your
options based on those specificneeds.
Do you need to prevent a branchfrom breaking?
Are you looking to minimizedamage if a branch does fail?
Jad (11:29):
So you're matching the system to the desired outcome.
Lilly (11:32):
Right.
And of course budget alwayscomes into play.
You know the availability ofmaterials, the expertise in your
area.
Those are practicalconsiderations.
Jad (11:40):
Right, you don't want to choose a system that's
impossible to obtain or install.
Lilly (11:44):
Exactly, and don't be afraid to reach out to
manufacturers, experiencedarborists you know they can be a
great resource when you'retrying to figure out what's best
for the tree.
Jad (11:52):
Right Collaboration is key in this field.
We can all learn from eachother's experiences.
Lilly (11:56):
Exactly, you know, this whole conversation really brings
up a really important pointabout tree care in general.
Jad (12:02):
I'm listening.
Lilly (12:03):
It's about, you know, shifting our perspective.
We need to move from simplytreating symptoms to really
understanding those underlyingcauses.
You know the root of theproblem.
Jad (12:13):
It's about looking beyond the surface, digging deeper to
understand what's really goingon with the tree right.
Lilly (12:18):
Right, these systems are amazing, but they're not magic
bullets.
They're part of a largerholistic approach.
Pruning, soil management, pestcontrol all of that plays a role
.
Jad (12:29):
Right, it's about seeing the tree as a whole, as a
complex living organism.
Lilly (12:34):
Yeah.
Jad (12:34):
Recognizing all those interconnections.
Lilly (12:36):
Exactly.
Jad (12:38):
It's a reminder that our role isn't just about fixing
problems, but it's aboutfostering health and resilience.
Lilly (12:44):
I couldn't agree more.
Jad (12:46):
Wow, we've covered a lot of ground today, talked about the
why, the how, the who of dynamictree crown stabilization, so
let's bring it all home for ourlisteners out there.
You know what are some keytakeaways, things they can
really apply in their own work.
Lilly (13:00):
You know, if I could leave everyone with just one
thought, it's that tree crownstabilization.
It's a tool, right, it's onepiece of the puzzle.
It's not the whole picture.
It's part of a bigger, a moreholistic way of looking at tree
care.
Jad (13:16):
Right, it's about seeing the whole tree, the whole
environment, not getting tunnelvision on just a single branch
or a problem you think you see.
Lilly (13:23):
Exactly, you can do amazing things with these
systems, but they work best whenthey're combined with other
best practices Pruning, soilmanagement, you know, pest
control all of that's important.
Jad (13:36):
Right.
So it's kind of like a symphonyright.
You need all those instrumentsworking together to create that
beautiful sound.
Lilly (13:41):
Yeah, that's a great analogy and just like a
conductor needs to know eachinstrument, you know their
strengths and weaknesses.
We need to understand eachindividual tree and the
environment it's living in.
Jad (13:54):
So it really comes down to continuous learning, right,
staying curious, askingquestions, you know, always
looking for new information, newways of approaching these
challenges.
Lilly (14:04):
Oh, absolutely this field .
It's always changing.
There's new research, newtechnology.
We've got to stay ahead of thecurve if we want to give those
trees the best possible care.
Jad (14:14):
Yeah, knowledge is power.
Yeah, Especially when you'redealing with living breathing
organisms like trees.
Lilly (14:19):
I couldn't agree more.
And you know, beyond all that,beyond the technical stuff,
there's something else that'sreally important.
Jad (14:25):
Okay, I'm intrigued.
What's the secret ingredienthere?
Lilly (14:28):
It's approaching each tree with a sense of respect, of
wonder, even these trees, theyhave so much to teach us if
we're willing to listen.
Jad (14:38):
That's beautifully said.
It reminds me that we're notjust working on these trees,
we're willing to listen.
That's beautifully said.
It reminds me that we're notjust working on these trees,
we're working with them.
We're partners in ensuringtheir health and their longevity
Exactly.
Lilly (14:46):
And when you, when you approach the work with that
mindset, it stops being just ajob, you know it becomes
something more, something muchmore meaningful.
Jad (14:55):
Well said, and I think that's a that's a perfect note
to end on.
Thank you so much for joiningus on this deep dive into
dynamic tree crown stabilizationsystems.
We hope you've learnedsomething new today and maybe
just maybe you've come away witha renewed appreciation for
these incredible trees allaround us.
Lilly (15:13):
Absolutely.
Stay curious out there and keepclimbing.
Roger (15:21):
Thanks for tuning in.
We hope this episode shed somelight on the critical standards
and practices around treestabilization, especially for
urban areas.
Understanding these guidelineshelps keep trees healthy and
safe in our communities.
If you found this episodeinsightful, consider sharing it
with your friends.
Until next time, stay rooted inknowledge and keep nurturing
(15:42):
those trees.
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