Duckbill Systems

Duckbill systems are not always required, but when needed they are used for extra support and stability of the tree. It will consist of a metal anchor that is submerged underground, the wire that is connected to the ground anchor and oftentimes a hose or softer fabric which is looped around the trunk or limb of the tree.

Duckbill systems are needed oftentimes when trees produce surface roots or are not yet well anchored into the soil. In most cases this is found in newly planted larger trees or improperly watered trees that have not produced good anchor roots for stability and even top heavy trees that cause too much stress on the trees structure. The duckbill system was created to provide that extra stability the tree is missing and create a more upright growth while the tree compensates or is acclimated to the new planting site.

With everything you do, there are still steps needed to make sure that the tree is maintained properly along with the duckbill system. Like most living organisms, your tree will continue to grow. With that growth, there is the possibility of the tree becoming girdled by the duckbill. This oftentimes happens when the tree grows in diameter and sometimes with upward growth. To prevent this damage falling upon your tree, have an arborist check out your tree once a year and adjust it to the proper length.