Can I Harm a Tree by Attempting to Trim It Myself?

For those considering trimming a tree, a common question arises: can I harm a tree by attempting to trim it myself?

Understanding Trees

Trees are often regarded as biotic components that we can handle casually. However, they are living organisms with intricate mechanisms. Professor Jagadish Chandra Bose, an Indian physicist, demonstrated that trees can sense and react to their environment, even through physical and chemical means.

Tree Communication: When trees are under attack by insects, they emit chemical signals to warn their neighboring trees, preparing them to produce defensive chemicals. This phenomenon highlights the complex communication networks within forests.

Physical Responses to Cutting

When a tree is cut, it responds by producing more shoots, akin to the mythical creature Hydra, which regrows more heads than it loses. This response can be observed when an elm tree is trimmed: it produces more shoots, potentially causing more problems than intended.

From a human perspective, cutting a tree is a significant action. In 2023, Michael Durcan, a renowned arborist, highlighted that trees are not sentient beings with a nervous system. They simply replicate and regrow. The impact of pruning or cutting a tree can be profound, especially if it is a large and healthy one.

Physical Effects on Trees

When a large tree is cut, the release of sap can create a visceral experience, similar to releasing bodily fluids. This phenomenon is more dramatic for those who regularly interact with trees, and less so for those who don't. However, this response underscores the living essence of the tree.

Working with Trees Safely

Trimming or cutting a tree can be dangerous, particularly if you lack experience. Even with intensive training, professional arborists have encountered trees called "widdowmakers," which can be exceptionally hazardous. These trees might have dead or brittle branches that can fall unexpectedly, posing a significant threat to anyone nearby.

Consulting Experts

Given the risks involved, it is generally advisable to consult a professional arborist. If you have any doubts or hesitations, it is crucial to err on the side of caution. The cost of a professional's services might seem high, but it is far less than the potential risks and liabilities associated with improper tree cutting.

Professional arborists can provide guidance on safe practices and prevent potential accidents. They can also ensure that the tree is trimmed in a way that does not harm the overall health of the tree. If the tree is over 12 feet tall or more than 8 inches in diameter, it is wise to hire a professional.

In conclusion, while trees may not be sentient beings in the anthropomorphic sense, they are living organisms that deserve respect. Proper education and professional guidance are key to safely interacting with and managing trees.