True or False: When multiple cables are installed on the same limb, hardware should be spaced at least as far apart as the diameter of the limb.

The statement is true because spacing the hardware at least as far apart as the diameter of the limb greatly reduces the risk of damage to both the attachment hardware and the tree limb itself. This practice ensures that the weight and stress exerted by the cables are distributed evenly, minimizing the risk of girdling (where the hardware cuts into the bark), which can severely impact the limb’s health and stability. Proper spacing also helps prevent a situation where one cable could impact or exert additional stress on the other cables, potentially leading to failure.

Ensuring that the cables are adequately spaced allows for better airflow, reduces the likelihood of abrasion between cables, and ensures that each attachment can perform its function effectively without compromising the structure of the limb. This technique is vital for maintaining the health of the tree while providing the necessary support.