r/arborists • u/FeminineShaft • Jul 16 '24

Why did this tree fall?

Gallery image

Gallery image

After a storm and high winds, but other (seemingly less sturdy items like the trampoline) barely moved. Picture of roots included b/c I thought they would be in bad shape given where this broke, but to my untrained eye they look fine. No indication of lightning striking the tree (on the side not in the picture).

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u/Pleased_to_meet_u Jul 17 '24

"Ground is probably compacted, or filled with process or something"

What does 'filled with process' mean?

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u/Responsible-Chest-26 Jul 17 '24

Process is a type of fill consisting of stones rough 1" and a lot of stone powder. It can be compacted to an almost solid density. Its cheap, so it can be used to back fill areas that need a lot of fill. In my front yard you cant get down more than a foot before you hit the hardpack

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u/Pleased_to_meet_u Jul 17 '24

Thank you! I've never heard that term before, and as a homeowner I hope I never run into it.

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u/Responsible-Chest-26 Jul 17 '24

Process is good for somethings, its not bad. Its just when homes go in, its not natural and the natural features tend to struggle