Young Mahogany Low Fork: Remove Before Storm Failure

Young West Indies mahogany with low secondary branch. Neighbor recommends removal.

Assessment

Low fork = weak attachment. High risk of splitting in wind as tree grows. Should have been removed earlier but not too late.

Procedure

• Wait for winter dormancy (prevents sap flow, borer attraction).
• Cut 1 ft up fork (weight won't tear trunk bark).
• Remove 1-ft stub ¼ inch from trunk (preserves branch collar).
• Angle final cut so water runs off.
• Crown looks lopsided briefly; fills in quickly.

Risk of Leaving

Storm breakage → trunk damage → tree ruin.