I planted this tree a little more than 20 years ago as a seedling that I dug up from the woods next to our house. It started out in a large soft drink cup and when it outgrew the cup and looked like it was going to make it, I planted it. My guess is that it's nearly 2 feet in diameter and at least 50 feet tall. Although the tree did all the work, I am very proud of having grown it from a mere sprout.
So many people around here now are cutting down perfectly good trees and leaving their yards looking sad and naked. It just breaks my heart when I see those lovely, healthy trees destroyed, leaving only ground out stumps and piles of sawdust. I guess it is the fear of what might happen one day.
We are having a tree taken down, too, but for safety reasons only. If it were healthy, that old maple, with all it's interesting character, would remain there shading the house for many years to come. Fortunately, it is on the north side of the house and the neighbors have a large elm nearby so there will still be some shade.
This is why it has to go. It is so hollowed out it's a wonder it's still standing, but to look at the top of the tree, you'd never know it. We (mostly me) have been putting this off for a long time but each year the hollow gets bigger and bigger and sooner or later, something will set up housekeeping in there, or it will go over in a big puff of wind...not a pleasant thought. So Friday down it comes [sniff].
For now, cheers from beneath the poplar!
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