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Massive Hackberry Near House: Cable, Prune, or Remove?

Nashville Hackberry 75-foot, 100+ year hackberry 15 feet from remodeled Nashville home. Arborists disagree: cable/prune ($1,200–1,400) vs. remove ($1,500–3,000). Cavitation present.

Assessment

Tree appears younger than 100 years. Crown looks healthy—cabling likely unnecessary. Primary issue: limbs near house.

Recommended Plan

Prune only limbs touching/rubbing house—minimal, balanced cuts.
Remove English ivy: Cut at base, paint stumps with Roundup (glyphosate). Or spray foliage on trunk—won't harm tree.
Skip cabling unless forester identifies structural weakness.
Free expert help: Contact TN Dept of Agriculture Forestry Division (Bruce Webster 615-837-5436; Brian Rucker 615-837-5439) for on-site advice.

Preserve the tree with targeted care, not aggressive intervention.

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