Rules of Thumb - Tree Selection

**RootCause** · 09-21-2010, 11:04

Originally Posted by tjm

The tradegy in Indiana has me re-thinking my decision process when selecting trees to hang from.

I just caught this story- that's a terrible accident, and a fairly large-diameter tree that fell. I give my chosen trees a thump with a stout stick (usually my walking stick) and a solid shake.

**Jerry** · 09-21-2010, 11:08

WHat happen in Indiana?????

Also, I look for trees that are at least 5 inches dia. and NEVER set up on a tree on a creek side......( tis is my rule of thumb ) Also, during the summer months I check for bee nests......

Jerry the Hiker

**beep** · 09-21-2010, 11:13

HERE is a link to the thread about the tragic death in Indiana related to hammocks.

The link to the related news story is HERE.

**creativeKayt** · 09-21-2010, 12:49

Ah ha! (raising right index finger) My hand length is about 6 inches (I have small hands for my height). So, what I'm gathering from y'all is that if the tree diam is as wide as my hand is long, I can move on to the next step of giving the tree a good shove and then knocking on it. I suppose just knocking on one spot isn't sufficient, but one should also give a couple solid knocks up and down the trunk, too, to make sure the entire tree is solid. If that goes well, I am to look up at the trees I've selected to hang from and the surrounding trees for widow makers. If all seems in order and I don't have any creepy vibes, I can go with it.

Any further input? And, thanks for the great info!

**leroybrown** · 09-21-2010, 12:59

Its an absolutely horrific incident. My thoughts and prayers go to the families.

Don't forget, though, this seems to be a pretty isolated incident. I think looking for widow makers and leaves should be the no. 1 priority. Try not to let this tragedy rock you too much. I've been following outdoor forums for years and have never heard of anything like this.

I mean, come on we hang between trees in fabric with tiny cords. We have to assume some risks but we MANAGE those risks. Please dont let it keep you out of the woods!!

**NCPatrick** · 09-21-2010, 13:08

Originally Posted by creativeKayt

Ah ha! (raising right index finger) My hand length is about 6 inches (I have small hands for my height). So, what I'm gathering from y'all is that if the tree diam is as wide as my hand is long, I can move on to the next step of giving the tree a good shove and then knocking on it. I suppose just knocking on one spot isn't sufficient, but one should also give a couple solid knocks up and down the trunk, too, to make sure the entire tree is solid. If that goes well, I am to look up at the trees I've selected to hang from and the surrounding trees for widow makers. If all seems in order and I don't have any creepy vibes, I can go with it.

Any further input? And, thanks for the great info!

Maybe give them both a good shake too, if you can manage it. See if anything falls, or moves too much up there. See if there are a lot of dead leaves on the branches.

It's tricky in the winter to see whether a tree is just dormant or dead, since the leaves are usually gone.

my .02

**canoebie** · 09-21-2010, 13:10

I also look at the species of tree. A six inch diameter white oak is going to be different than a 6 inch sasafrass for example. Additionally, assess the overall health of the canopy. Look for patterns of disease and deterioration as it relates to size and species of trees.

I have heated my house with wood for 40 years and dropped and cut a lot of trees during those years. An observant eye goes a long way. Stop, look and even listen and the trees will tell their stories of storms, pests, and lush growth all at once. It is so much fun to be there to share with them.

**creativeKayt** · 09-21-2010, 13:46

Originally Posted by canoebie

I also look at the species of tree. A six inch diameter white oak is going to be different than a 6 inch sasafrass for example. Additionally, assess the overall health of the canopy. Look for patterns of disease and deterioration as it relates to size and species of trees.

Excellent input! Tree type is a great consideration to add, as is giving a good shake. Thanks to you both!

**Just Jeff** · 09-21-2010, 14:29

Definitely true. I hung my wife and son from Aspens a couple trips ago...that same diameter tree would have been find in another species, but since they were Aspens the hammocks ended up on the ground by morning. I really looked like superdad then...

**lonetracker** · 09-21-2010, 17:21

to tell if a tree is alive or dead in winter look for the presence of buds.most dead trees will not have buds on them.
do not nock on or shake a tree untill you are certain there are no widowmakers above you.
if you are expecting lots of snow do not set up under pines.their large needle covered branches hold a lot of snow.which may cause them to break.in the north this is especially true of white pine they have weak branches.i will not even walk under them if they are covered with heavy wet snow.
safely hung
bill