Old spike marks on an oak taught me a new way to climb

I used to grab my spikes for any tree climb, thinking it was just faster and easier, you know? But last month, we were pruning a mature oak and the homeowner showed me these ugly gashes from spikes used years ago. The bark was all messed up and you could see decay starting in those spots (it really hit home). I did some digging online and talked to a few seasoned arborists, and they all said the same thing: spikes are for removals, not live work. So now, I've switched to using a rope and harness system for pruning, even though it takes a little more time to set up. The trees heal better and it just feels right, like I'm actually helping them instead of hurting them. It's wild how one chat with a client can flip your whole approach. I'm glad I learned this before causing more damage, honestly.

3 comments

3 Comments

troy_davis247mo ago

Seeing those old spike marks must've been a wake up call. I mean, it's true that spikes should only be for removals, but even then, some arborists will use other methods if the tree can be saved. The decay you saw might have been from other stuff too, but spikes definitely don't help. Switching to ropes for pruning is a smart move, it shows you care about the tree's health. Honestly, more climbers should think like that.

wendy_bell337mo ago

Consider carrying a throw line for quick access in emergencies, @finley_rivera67, to avoid spike damage.

finley_rivera677mo ago

Hold up, I gotta disagree here! Sometimes you need spikes on a live tree if it's the only way to get to a broken limb or dangerous hang up fast. I've seen situations where taking the time to set ropes would mean more damage happening while you wait. The goal is to help the tree, and if spikes let you get there now to stop worse problems, you use them. It's not about being lazy, it's about what the tree needs right then.