Tree Support Systems: What They Are and Why You Might Need Them

Trees are a vital part of our yards,  providing shade, beauty and environmental benefits. But when a tree starts to lean or show signs of instability, it can quickly shift from being beneficial to hazardous.  A leaning tree might be a signal of underlying issues—such as root damage, soil erosion or structural weakness—that can threaten property, power lines or even personal safety. Whether you’re a homeowner looking to protect your property or a tree enthusiast wanting to learn more, discover how tree support systems such as guying, bracing and cabling can provide stability and the other benefits they offer.

Why You Might Need a Tree Support System

Tree-support systems are used to improve the structural integrity of trees. Common reasons why trees may need support include:

• Split or Cracked Branches: Trees that have sustained damage or exhibit cracks may benefit from bracing to prevent further splitting and allow healing.

• Overextended Limbs: Large, horizontal limbs that extend too far from the trunk are at risk of breaking under their own weight or in high winds.

• Storm Damage: Trees that have been partially damaged by strong winds, ice or lightning strikes can be stabilized with cabling and bracing while they recover.

• Top-Heavy Trees: Trees with uneven weight distribution, such as those with dense crowns or leaning trunks, may require support to balance the load and reduce the risk of tipping.

• Historic Trees: For trees with significant historical value, cabling and bracing may preserve their structure and extend their lifespan.

• Structural Imbalances: Trees growing in urban environments may develop asymmetrical growth, requiring cabling or bracing to maintain stability.

By addressing these issues, guying, cabling and bracing can help protect from the threat of personal or property damage that structurally weak trees can cause. Although they all serve to stabilize trees, each technique is used for specific purposes and involves different methods.

Guying Systems

Tree guying is a technique in which guy wires (tensioned cables) are used to provide temporary stability to trees by anchoring them to ground level external anchors, like stakes driven into the ground. Tree guying is used:

• For newly planted trees in open areas where wind can disturb the establishment of roots.

• For mature trees that have been partially uprooted or are leaning dangerously.

• For trees growing in loose, sandy or unstable soil.

• To aid in the recovery of storm-damaged or uprooted trees.

Guying is primarily for ground-level support and a temporary (one to two year) solution which can help trees survive challenging conditions and thrive in the long term. Consulting with a certified arborist ensures the proper installation and timing of this type of tree support system.

Cabling Systems

Cabling is a more advanced tree support system that is used on a semi-permanent basis for trees with overextended limbs or co-dominant stems, trunks and branch structure. Installed within the tree canopy, cabling redistributes weight of the tree using high-strength steel cables to connect and stabilize upper branches.

Tree cabling involves the following hardware specifically designed to support and stabilize trees with structural weaknesses such as cracks, splits or heavy limbs:

• Steel Cables: Galvanized or stainless-steel cables are most commonly used for strength and durability.

• Extra High-Strength Cable: Often preferred for its high load capacity and reliability.

• Lag Hooks: Screwed into the tree to serve as anchor points for the cables.

• Through-Bolts: Used when greater strength is needed, these pass completely through the branch or trunk and are secured with nuts and washers.

• Turnbuckles: Adjustable connectors used to tighten the cables and provide flexibility for adjustments over time.

Tree cabling should always be performed with care to avoid damaging the tree, and it’s typically recommended to consult a certified arborist to ensure proper installation.

Bracing Systems

Bracing tree support systems are a permanent, long-term solution that use rigid steel rods or bolts inserted through the tree or between limbs to hold them together. Bracing is installed in the upper canopy of a tree and provides internal reinforcement for limbs or trunks that are beginning to crack, split or separate. It is common to see bracing used in combination with cabling for added strength.

Here are the primary hardware pieces used for tree bracing:

• Threaded Steel Rods: Physically hold together split or weak sections of the tree.

• Nuts: Secure the threaded rod in place on either end. Hex nuts are the standard but lock nuts are used to prevent loosening over time due to tree movement.

• Washers: Distribute the pressure of the nut and threaded rod over a larger area, minimizing damage to the tree. Flat washers are the most common type but domed washers are used for aesthetics and to better accommodate curved surfaces.

• Bracing Pins: Used as an alternative to threaded rods, particularly for smaller-scale bracing. These are simpler and less invasive but less robust.

Tree bracing should always be designed to allow the tree to continue its natural growth and movement. Like cabling, bracing should be installed by a certified arborist to ensure proper technique and minimize harm to the tree.

Seek Professional Advice

The three types of tree support systems – guying, cabling and bracing – provide different levels of stability and protection for trees depending on their structural needs, condition and environmental factors. Guying stabilizes a tree externally, at ground level, while cabling and bracing work internally to reinforce the tree’s structure.  

Tree support systems must be periodically inspected by a certified arborist since all support systems have a limited life and adjustments to the hardware will be required. At Millers Tree Service, our certified arborists can inspect your trees to determine whether a support system would be beneficial for the health and stability of the tree. For a free estimate, contact us today.