Get $70 off tree trimming and a free estimate on your property. Learn More
Get $70 off tree trimming and a free estimate on your property. Learn More
Trees are really good at growing strong structure — they have to be in order to live for decades, centuries, and in some cases, millennia. They are not perfect, however, and weak structure can develop in trees for a variety of reasons. Some trees grow with tight branch attachment angles, driving an ever-expanding wedge of bark down into the wood between the trunk and the branch. Those branches fail more frequently than comparable branches with nice, wide attachment angles.
Sometimes a windstorm comes through, churning up the canopy and leaving behind broken or damaged branches. Some of these need to be pruned out, but others may just need a little extra strengthening and support. As unintuitive as it seems, branches also need to move. The movement a branch experiences triggers the growth of more wood where the stress is highest, making the branch stronger — kind of like working out at the gym.
This is where cabling and bracing come in. Cabling involves looping strong, somewhat elastic, hollow polyester ropes around main branches high in the canopy. These run from one side of the tree to another and are installed with a little slack in the line. Their purpose is not to prevent movement between the attached stems, but to limit how much movement can occur. This puts “outside rails” on branch movement, similar to the rails in a bowling alley that keep bad throws out of the gutter.
When done using modern best practices, cabling typically no longer relies on steel cables attached to bolts drilled through the middle of the branch. While those older systems did hold branches up, they allowed less natural movement, and the holes created to install the bolts often became a feeding ground for wood-decay fungi.
Bracing is a different approach to stabilizing weak structure. Because it does involve drilling through the wood, it should only be used when justified. Bolts are placed through both the branch and trunk and tightened down. When used at branch unions that have begun to crack on top — or appear likely to do so — bracing can provide years of added safety before decay in the bolt hole becomes a concern.
Some leaning trees can also be stabilized with well-designed prop systems. These are usually A-frame lumber supports with their bottoms set into the soil and padded tops pressing against the tree. Not all leaning trees are good candidates for this approach, but when appropriate, it can be an effective solution.
Legacy Tree enjoys the challenge of designing and installing tree support systems such as cables, braces, and props. We love helping make a tree safer — safe enough to remain in the landscape for many more years. The client feels confident, the tree stays healthy, and everyone wins.
We carefully trim and prune trees to reduce risk, encourage healthy growth, and aesthetic balance—preserving both safety and beauty in your outdoor spaces
When a tree becomes hazardous or must be removed, our crews perform removals safely, efficiently, and with minimal disruption to the surrounding landscape.
Our certified arborists assess tree health through detailed inspection and modern diagnostics, providing clear recommendations for treatment and care.
Certified Cabling and Bracing sustains valuable trees by correcting poor structural development. Our arborists install static or dynamic support systems to reinforce weak branch attachments, reduce stress on vulnerable points, and improve long-term structural integrity.
Our experts diagnose and treat pest infestations and diseases with environmentally responsible methods, restoring balance and protecting the longevity of your trees and plants.
We provide comprehensive tree care for commercial properties, ensuring safety, beauty, and long-term health across business campuses, HOAs, apartment complexes, and shared spaces.
We offer comprehensive tree care including pruning, removals, planting, disease and pest management, irrigation maintenance, and landscape design.
Yes — Legacy Tree Company is fully licensed and insured for all residential and commercial tree work.
We proudly serve Albuquerque, Corrales, Los Ranchos, Rio Rancho, Placitas, Tijeras/Cedar Crest, and Santa Fe.
Most trees benefit from professional pruning every 2–3 years to promote health, structure, and safety — though frequency can vary based on species and site conditions.
Yes — our team of 10+ certified arborists can identify the cause of leaf loss, discoloration, or decay, and provide targeted treatment plans.
Trees that are dead, hazardous, structurally unsound, or interfering with structures may need removal. Our team can assess your tree and recommend the safest option.
Absolutely — all team members undergo extensive safety training and follow TSIA and ISA standards for safe, responsible tree care.
We recycle and repurpose as much material as possible, from mulch to firewood, to minimize environmental impact.
We focus on long-term tree health, responsible removal only when necessary, and Eco-conscious landscape practices that support a resilient urban forest.
Yes — Legacy Tree Company provides complimentary estimates for general tree work. However, our team of 10+ certified arborists is trained to diagnose complex tree health issues, which may require a paid evaluation or consultation depending on the situation. This ensures you receive a thorough, science-based assessment when your trees need expert attention.
During peak seasons (spring and summer), it’s best to schedule 2–3 weeks in advance.
We accept checks, major credit cards, and digital payments for your convenience.
