The Larch

A routine part of my job on windy days (or probably more commonly windy days + 1) seems to involve answering phone calls from concerned tree owners, worried that the large tree in their back garden (or again more commonly, their neighbours garden) appears to be swaying too violently and asking if they should just get it cut down.

For years I have listened to their concerns and offered the genuine reassurance that if the tree is showing no signs of disease, decay or dieback, then the fact that it is swaying is most likely a good thing as there is a natural elasticity built into a trees structure to allow it to flex in such conditions. Actually, it would be more concerning if the canopy of the tree was not moving in the wind.

For years I have advised people to have their mature trees routinely inspected by a qualified arboriculturalist to ensure there are no issues requiring attention, and then to relax and enjoy the beauty of these majestic living things dancing in the wind (I tend to be more sympathetic in my wording!)

That was before we moved house a few years back and now are the proud owners of not one but six mature (and majestic) trees. Just like Monty Python it is The Larch which is of particular interest, and the one that brings the most concern, on a windy day.