Bark Inclusions
Bark inclusions occur when two branches or stems of a tree grow too close together leaving no room for them to grow and expand.
As the tree ages, it adds an annual ring of growth, which increases the diameter. If the branches/stems have a U-shaped union, there will be room for them to grow. If they have a union shaped more like a V, they will struggle.
In nature, trees don’t usually grow independently and would have the support of other trees in forest or woodland areas to lean on. This would minimize the potential for V-shaped unions to be an issue.
As Arborists when we see a V union, we know there is potential for a weakness. Thinning or bracing can help reduce the risk in some mature trees but proper proactive pruning when young may eliminate issues in the future.
All trees have the potential to have V-shaped unions, however, we can help to reduce the chance of failure as the tree matures.