Why rope-based tree trimming protects the long term health of your trees more than climbing spikes

Most homeowners want their trees trimmed without leaving hidden problems behind. One method treats your trees gently. The other pokes holes in the trunk every step of the way. Rope-based climbing has become the go-to approach for pruning because it keeps the climber off the bark and avoids the punctures caused by spikes.

Why spike-free climbing matters for pruning

Modern pruning standards, including ANSI A300, direct arborists to avoid climbing spurs for trimming work. The only common exception is tree removal. For living trees, spike-free access is the way to protect bark and keep the trunk intact.

How spikes injure bark and create long-term problems

Spikes puncture through bark and into the tissue that moves nutrients through the tree. A series of small wounds can turn into a row of dead spots that invite pests and decay. Industry groups have documented cankers, rot pockets, and lingering trunk scars that started with spike use on routine pruning jobs.

Examples

• Punctures interrupt the cambium layer

• Wounds close slowly on older trees

• Repeated holes can attract fungi and insects

How rope systems work for safe pruning

Rope climbing keeps the climber supported from above or from a nearby limb. The bark stays untouched. This is common with single rope technique or doubled rope technique. Ropes in the 10.5 mm to 12 mm range handle load well and give climbers steady positioning without digging hardware into the trunk. This also allows the arborist to safely access more of the canopy than would be possible on spikes.

What this means for homeowners

• No rows of holes on your trunk

• Better healing around pruning cuts

• Lower risk of hidden decay problems later

Comparison table: ropes vs spikes

Factor	Rope systems	Climbing spikes
Bark injury	None	Holes every step
Long-term health	Strong chance of normal healing	Higher chance of decay
Best use	Pruning, canopy access	Removals only
Tree value protection	High	Lower

Questions to ask before you hire an arborist:

• Do you climb with ropes for pruning work?

• Are you following ANSI A300 pruning practices?

• Will you put the access method in writing on the estimate?

• Can you explain how you protect bark during the job?

A quality arborist should have clear answers and a spike-free plan for your trees to ensure their long term health.