What technique is used to assess the structural integrity of a tree?

Resistograph testing is a sophisticated method employed to evaluate the structural integrity of a tree. This technique involves using a specialized drill that measures the resistance encountered as it penetrates the wood. By analyzing these resistance patterns, arborists can identify areas of decay, cavities, or any structural weakness within the tree. This quantitative data offers a clear insight into the internal conditions of the tree, allowing for more informed decisions regarding tree management, preservation, or removal.

While visual inspection is valuable for spotting external signs of distress or health issues, it does not provide the internal structural data that resistograph testing offers. Similarly, soil testing focuses on the conditions and health of the soil that supports the tree rather than the tree itself. Laser scanning is useful for detailed mapping and might help in assessing overall tree structure, but it lacks the specific internal analysis that resistograph testing provides. Thus, resistograph testing is recognized as the most effective technique for directly evaluating the internal integrity of a tree's structure.