The use of hammocks has significantly increased in recent years. Hammocks are a great way to relax comfortably outside. With the increase in popularity, many cities and universities have begun to put bans on hanging hammocks in certain spaces. This is often attributed to the potential damage that a hammock could cause to trees. For residential and commercial properties, this could be a concern. While there is some merit to the risk of harming a tree, there are ways to prevent any harm from happening while still enjoying your hammock.
Consider Type of Tree
It is important to make sure the trees are steady and mature when it comes to strapping up a hammock. Trees such as oak, maple, palm, and beech trees are ideal. You also want to make sure that the tree doesn’t show any sign of disease. You’ll want to look for large cracks, exposed roots, or dead branches.
The Best Way to Hang
If you are looking to hook a hammock up to trees on your property, it is recommended to screw a bolt into each tree. This provides a secure hold with minimum damage to your tree. Ropes can cause damage to the bark which can make the tree more susceptible to disease.
You may also want to consider using tree-saving straps instead of rope. Straps are thicker and tend to be gentler on the tree itself. Many high-quality hammocks come with straps to promote responsible hanging.
If you are still worried about harming your trees, you can invest in a stand-alone hammock stand. This provides the convenience of being able to place it anywhere. It also saves your trees from any potential risk.
Ask the Professionals
If you want to ensure your tree is healthy enough for support, the professionals at Advanced Tree and Landscape can help. We can provide tips to ensure you can enjoy your hammock and protect the health of your trees. Contact us with any tree care concerns.