LOVE, HATE AND BIG TREES

 After two big winds storms this winter, our large 70 ft, 35 year old Silver Maple is a mess! Three major branches on the south side (when the wind came from) are hanging down into our neighbor's yard. Luckily the broken branches are wedged into place. Most were broken from the first storm and we kept our fingers crossed that they wouldn't fall down during the second storm and take out the fence. We just got lucky!

I confess to a "Goldilocks" feeling about this giant shade tree. Sure, I want some shade...but not too much, only just enough on those very hot summer days...And I want some leaves for mulch...but not too many, just enough for layering in the mulch bin. At long last, and $700 later, I may get my wish. The arborist says he can take out all the broken stuff, clean out the sucker growth and thin out the ends of the main branches that tend to completely blot out the sun.
Since this tree is "land locked" and no bucket truck (even with a 60' arm) can get near it, it will mean that the trimmer has to climb into it. They don't use climbing spikes these days (they've learned that spikes make wounds that invite pests and diseases to enter the tree) so he'll have to be quite careful not to slip. He'll be working at 35-40 feet above the ground (without a net). 
I'll reward the young man (you have to be young to do this kind of stuff) with some fresh baked chocolate chip cookies. It seems the least I can do for someone who earns his living risking his neck climbing into trees!