Trees are a gift of nature that serve every living being, including farmers. They provide shade, clean air, fruit, wood, and help maintain the fertility of the soil. In villages and farms across India, trees are more than just plants; they are part of our everyday life and tradition. However, many old and large trees, especially those over 100 years old, are slowly dying due to damage, diseases, pests, and weak trunks.
Farmers know how important it is to protect standing trees on their farms, along canals, and near homes. But when a tree becomes hollow or starts leaning dangerously, it turns into a safety hazard. Falling trees can destroy property, block roads, harm livestock, and even injure people. Replacing such trees takes years, and growing new ones to the same size is costly and time-consuming. This is where tree surgery becomes a useful solution. It helps damaged trees recover and live longer, while saving farmers from trouble and financial loss.
What is Tree Surgery and Why is It Important?
Tree surgery is a special method used to treat trees that have been damaged by pests, diseases, birds, storms, or age. When the trunk of a tree becomes hollow, it loses strength and cannot support the heavy branches above. These hollow areas often shelter insects, termites, and other pests that worsen the damage. Over time, the tree’s roots stop supplying nutrients properly, and the tree dries up and falls.
Tree surgery removes the damaged part of the tree and restores its strength. Just like doctors treat patients, tree surgeons treat trees to prevent further harm. If carried out at the right time, this method can extend the life of a tree by many years and help it grow again. It also helps protect nearby crops, buildings, and roads from tree fall accidents.
How Tree Surgery is Done
Once a tree needing surgery is identified, the first step is to clean the hollow or damaged area of the trunk. A controlled flame is sometimes used to remove pests and their eggs. This step must be done very carefully to avoid burning the healthy parts of the tree. After that, an insecticide like prophenofos (2 ml per litre of water) is sprayed into the cleaned cavity to kill any remaining insects.
Next, the empty space inside the trunk is filled with materials like Plaster of Paris. If the hole is large, chicken mesh is used to support the filling. A thin cement layer is applied on top to protect the area from rain and sun. This coating also prevents insects from entering again. In about two to three years, the tree begins to heal, and new shoots or leaves indicate that recovery is happening. Over time, the treated tree trunk becomes strong again.
Difference Between Tree Surgery and Rejuvenation
While both methods are used to improve tree health, there is a difference. Tree rejuvenation is usually done when a tree has uneven branches or is attacked by pests on the top portion. This involves trimming and shaping the branches to improve sunlight and airflow. On the other hand, tree surgery focuses on treating the base of the tree, especially the trunk, when it becomes hollow or weak. Both methods are important for protecting and managing trees properly on farmlands and in public areas.
Tree Ambulance
A tree ambulance is a vehicle equipped with tools and materials needed for tree treatment. Just like an ambulance treats humans, this one treats trees. It has ladders, hoses, nets, chemicals, and trained workers who perform on-the-spot tree surgery. Farmers or local people who notice a dying or dangerous tree can contact the Horticulture Department (MCD) at [email protected] to request this service. Although there is no special helpline number yet, this email is one way to seek help.
Why Farmers and Rural Areas Should Care About Tree Surgery
In many villages, trees along field borders, roadsides, or in front yards often grow too large and block sunlight or create safety problems during storms. Their branches can fall on livestock, electric wires, or even people. Selective pruning and branch removal can prevent these risks. At the same time, by shaping and caring for trees properly, we can maintain their beauty and increase the value of our land.
For young trees as well, early care through pruning helps them grow strong and balanced. This reduces future problems like tilting or broken branches. Tree surgery is not only for heritage trees but also useful for managing orchards, farm bunds, and community spaces.
Trees are not just part of our environment, they are partners in our farming journey. By taking care of old and damaged trees through tree surgery, we protect both nature and human life. This method helps trees recover, prevents accidents, and keeps our surroundings green and safe. It is time to spread awareness about this practice, especially in rural and farming areas, so that more trees can be saved and maintained for future generations.
