How the Fabric is Cut Makes a Huge Difference in Tree Girdling

Ecological Sciences Forestry Technical Note Number MT-23

March 2004.
Craig Stange, Forester, Natural Resources Conservation Service, Bismarck, North Dakota.

Those who say, “No, we do not really have a problem with tree girdling,” are cutting their fabric differently than most of those who do have tree-girdling issues. The majority of people who have cut single slits or arcs (C-cuts) are now finding that as the tree matures, some trees do not have room to grow in the opened area.

The majority of people who have cut "X"s or triangle cuts and made sure that the tree is in the center of the opened area are not noticing much of a problem. This can vary somewhat if the "X" cut or triangle is less than 6 to 8 inches in length. But what if the solution is as easy as being particular about the size and shape of the cut based on the expected circumference of the mature tree?

What about weeds at the base of the tree? It is also possible to make a larger "X" cut and then pin the flaps together with wire staples pushed only part way down. As the tree grows, the staples by the tree normally push up out of the soil, or if necessary can be removed with a pry bar, thus allowing the flaps to open and make room for the growing tree.

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