Trees need extra loving care to keep them healthy and beautiful, so you’ll need to keep an eye out for any potential problems. One of the issues you may encounter is codominance. But what’s a codominant tree? Should you be worried when you have one on your property?
In this post, we delve deeper into codominant trees and their risks, as advised by a professional who provides reliable tree service in Cherry Hill, NJ.
What Is a Codominant Tree?
A codominant tree spreads out in different directions from the original stem. This increases the tree’s size and reach; someone would be forgiven for thinking you have two trees growing from one stem!
Codominant stems usually grow in U shapes and V shapes. However, a U-shaped codominant branch is usually more stable, thanks to the smooth bark at the joint section, which easily separates. On the other hand, a V-shaped stem won’t have proper bark inclusion. This causes the bark to bunch up and potentially results in cracks in the tree’s structure.
Codominance can affect any tree, but the most susceptible tree species are oaks and maples.
The Top Three Dangers of Codominant Trees
If you have a codominant tree on your property, be ready to deal with the following issues.
Structural Weakness
The section where two or more stems meet is usually structurally weaker than a stand-alone stem. In that case, your tree will be more susceptible to failure in storms, high winds, or other stressful conditions.
Once a branch breaks or detaches from the trunk, the open wound creates a perfect avenue for diseases and insects to attack your tree.
Bark Inclusion
This problem occurs when codominant stems grow too closely together, forming a tight V-shape. The V-shape can trap debris, water, and disease-promoting organisms. This will compromise the tree’s structure and make it more vulnerable to decay.
Uneven Tree Growth
Do you know what happens when several stems are competing for dominance? They often grow unevenly, and you’ll have an unbalanced tree that will likely look less aesthetically-pleasing.
Dealing With Codominant Trees
When it comes to managing codominant trees, you need to understand the significance of early and late treatment. Also, the less mature the tree is, the easier it is to manage the problem, especially by yourself.
To minimize the risks of codominant stems, it’s important to inspect and diagnose the issue as early as possible in the tree’s life. You can easily correct codominance in a young tree by cutting the smaller of the two dominant stems off. After removing or trimming one codominant stem, your arborist may choose the branch that’ll assume the dominant role.
Managing codominant stems later in the tree’s life can be more challenging. In this case, you’ll need an expert to assess the tree to decide which codominant branch should be removed and which one to remain. There’s no room for mistakes in this quest – selecting the wrong branch can lead to branch tear-out or failure.
Contact Your Local Tree Experts for Assistance
Codominant trees pose various risks, such as structural weakness, bark inclusion, and uneven growth. If you need professional help dealing with a codominant tree on your property, Bumblebee Tree Service is your go-to local arborist.
We’ve served South Jersey for over 10 years. We provide a wide range of services, including:
- Emergency Tree Service
- Tree Removal
- Tree Pruning
- Tree Trimming
Contact us at (609) 352-0499 to request your free estimate and to learn about why you need a tree removal permit in Cherry Hill, NJ. We’re ready to assist with your needs.
