Saving the trees...

[kingandy2nd]

I've got a row of mature conifer trees in the back garden.

In December's strong winds, two of the trees have started to lean at strange angles.

Earlier in the year I'd changed the fence posts and concrete that had butted up to the bottom of these trees. I didn't cut any roots, but the trees were right up against the old posts so I assume the old posts were offering some support/stability.

I don't really want to cut these trees down, but wondering about ways to stabilise them or stand them back upright?

I thought ratchet straps to the tress that are still standing properly. I'm not sure if there's anything else I can do to help the situation?

Rough explanation - trees 1 and 4 are upright. Tree 2 is leaning forwards about 30 degrees, and tree 3 has leaned backwards by about 15 degrees.

 

[lostinthelight]

The only bit of a chance that I can see is to top them to reduce the sail effect . I doubt anyone would climb them so a cherry picker may be needed

 

[kingandy2nd]

The only bit of a chance that I can see is to top them to reduce the sail effect . I doubt anyone would climb them so a cherry picker may be needed

i have a scaffold tower and a sense of adventure

 

[lostinthelight]

Could be dangerous, once the weight is cut off it could spring back to a more upright position taking the tower with it if its too close

 

[kingandy2nd]

Good point, I’ll stay downwind from the spring direction

 

[Harry Bloomfield]

You probably disturbed and loosened the soil around the roots, hence the lean. I wouldn't want trees that close to my house, as it looks to be close to that one in the background.

 

[kingandy2nd]

You probably disturbed and loosened the soil around the roots, hence the lean. I wouldn't want trees that close to my house, as it looks to be close to that one in the background.

Thankfully that neighbour helped with the fence replacement so his fingerprints are on this too if the trees fall on his place