Question From:
Daniel Herscovitch in Summer Hill, Sydney NSW
Nature of problem:
Our liquidambar tree (over 50 years old and therefore VERY tall) drops heavy branches from time to time and sometimes even limbs. I am concerned that it is quite dangerous and thinking about removing it. However it is a magnificent tree and I am therefore in two minds. I note you state that they grow to a maximum of 25 metres. Does this mean it has or will eventually stop growing? What would be your recommendation?
Type of Plant (if known):
Liquidambar
Symptoms of Plant Illness (please try NOT to diagnose your problems yourself):
Quite healthy (apart from the occasional dead branch)
Soil Type (e.g. sandy, clay or loam) OR Potting Mix Type:
Clay
How often do you water the plant:
Never
How many hours of sunlight does the plant get each day:
As many hours as the sun shines
What type of plant is it:
Liquidambar. Green leaves turn red/purple in autumn
How long since you planted it:
Planted by our predecessors, possibly late 1950s or early 1960s
Have you fertilised? If so, with what and when:
No
Is the plant indoors or outdoors:
Outdoors
What other treatments have you given the plant:
None
Upload photo if available:
Other Comments:
We could of course just severely prune it but this would be a great pity also. Our arborist tells me they grow around 5% annually. Is this true, or will it eventually stop growing? (It does appear to be still growing.) I amtold one can see it on Google maps. A further problem is that brnches reach into neighbours’ properties.
As I am very grateful for this service I would be happy to donate to a charity of your choice. many thanks!
Answer: Hi Daniel, Old liquidambars tend to continuously drop huge heavy limbs – especially if there is an intermittant water supply to the roots. All trees continue to grow until they die. Height is variable due to genetic factors and also to growing conditions. 25 metres is merely an average figure for a liquidambar. Don.
