Big Old Trees are Loved
A large Mazzard Cherry tree recently came to the end of a life, that quite possibly started deep in the 19th century.
main trunk and three limbs
With a large white blossom bloom in the spring, followed by a crop of edible, but not coveted by humans, dark red cherries, it was almost certainly planted in the then backyard of the Paisley stone farmhouse on Main St. W, Hamilton. It is conceivable that the cherries were preserved and stored in the root cellar for a winter treat.
guiding big cut limb
The tree had grown to its estimated maximum height of 20 m., something over 60 feet, and its trunk was nearly one metre (about three feet) in diameter. For decades it had contributed some north wind block for one house and shade for other houses and always, but more especially, near the end of its life, a home for city wildlife such as squirrels, birds and the occasional raccoon. It also provided oxygen, and a modern concern, it stored a lot of carbon.
heavy chunk on a rope
The smallest of its three main branches had died and there was die back at the tree’s crown. But it became a safety hazard as a split between the two main branches developed and it was hollowing out. It may have stood for a few more years, but it also may have come down on surrounding buildings anytime in a gust of wind.
felling a heavy piece
While the wood is not as cherished as black cherry is, it nevertheless can provide reddish brown timber desired in furniture. The firewood is known to have a pleasant odour. This species is described as an historical variety with genetic base used in the development of other cherry varieties. As well as in Canada, it also grows in Europe, including the British Isles.
roping biggest log
This tree was dismantled carefully in early July by a skilled crew such that the only damage was holes in the lawn where some of the heavy pieces fell from a height. It took about 2.5 hours to have it all “safely” on the ground.
top of biggest log
down to top of main trunk
Decay in the centre of the tree confirmed arborist suspicions that it was on the way out and posed a danger.
tree is down and cut up
Starting in the canopy, the chainsaw with the shortest bar (blade) is used, along with hand saw for small branches. The length of the bar and size of the saw increases as the work descends to larger limbs and finally the trunk.
For photos of more big old loveable trees I have seen, see this site. Great Trees.
https://www.flickr.com/photos/alexsoddphotos/albums/72157714199170687/
