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What Happened to Oak Creek’s Linden Trees This Winter?
Our recent cold snap has severely damaged a dozen Linden trees in Oak Creek. So, why were Linden trees particularly hit hard?
Spencer Szuta, Oak Creek’s Forestry Foreman, said, “They were pruned improperly when they were younger because back in the day, tree workers usually only pruned with the goal of clearance. They didn’t know proper pruning techniques, so these trees developed multiple leaders and included bark.”
For those of you wondering what included bark is, Szuta explained. "Included bark (or bark inclusion) in a tree refers to bark getting trapped in a narrow crotch or union between two branches or stems, creating a weak structural point that can lead to splitting and failure, often appearing as a deep, V-shaped seam with little wood holding the connection together. This condition occurs when branches grow too close together, preventing strong wood development and creating a pocket for water and pests, compromising the tree's integrity.”
So, when it gets extremely cold, like we experienced this January, the water (from snow) in these seams or included bark turns to ice, which expands and cracks the tree’s trunk.
Modern Certified Arborists are trained to prune for a single central leader, trying to prune out branch areas to prevent included bark or to slow growth and take weight off branches that already have it. They also look for hazards, like dead or broken branches, and crisscrossing or rubbing branches, and perform specialized pruning to encourage healthy, strong structure while still keeping the tree cosmetically appealing.
“Just because Lindens have this issue sometimes, does not mean I would not plant them or recommend them. They are great for pollinators and can be appealing, big shady trees that are very fragrant when blooming,” Szuta said
The City has surveyed and marked most of the trees impacted for removal because they are now structurally unsound, but Szuta said, “It would really be helpful if residents took a quick look at their trees that line the street to make sure, we didn’t miss any.”
If you do notice a problem, you should call the Forestry Department at (414) 570-5685.
We’ve also included photos of a properly pruned tree and a Linden tree that will have to be cut down.
The key is: a U-shaped branch connection is good; a tight V-shaped branch connection is bad.
If your tree was removed, the city will replace it once the weather gets warmer.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Kelly Shoff
Marketing and Communications Manager
City of Oak Creek
kshoff@oakcreekwi.gov
Office: 414-766-7075
Mobile: 414-865-3987