Rotten/hollow large limb

[Jimanicricket]

Hey all, 

 in need of some advice on this Sycamore tree. Since the original photo I’ve done a crown reduction of about a meter to reduce wind from causing any pieces to come down. It’s got two very large hollow/rotten core on the main branches of the tree. They’re not very circular, one only has a semi circular still attached travelling up. Hope the photos are good enough. I’m 5’9 and I can stand in them up to my belly button. 
 I’d like some advice on best course of action moving forward. 
 Firstly I think one should be removed as it overhangs the neighbours main patio area and if it fell away in a storm it would be game over for anything/anyone below. I know this is going to damage the cambium and what’s forming to try and reinforce this area with new growth but it’s in a very exposed and high up area. I don’t want to cause any damage to the tree beyond what’s necessary. Also the tree seems healthy except for these. Second one is if I do remove it then what are peoples suggestions on how. Like how far back should I go ? Not really dealt with anything big and rotten before. 
 In some places I think they’ve been caused by work yearsss ago, others have torn off and some more recently in a storm hence the reduction. 
Lastly probably a common sense one but one main branch also has this at the back half but isn’t in direct path of hurting anyone if it came down. Should it be removed anyway or be left ? About 40cm wide. Thanks for your help. 

[Mark Bolam]

100% reduction would be my advice.

[Steve Bullman]

Unless you have a specific need to retain that tree such as for habitat, screen etc, then all you’re ever going to be doing is polishing a turd in a regular basis for several years to come. I agree with mark, 100% reduction 😀

[Dan Maynard]

.... but it is great habitat in the meantime, in the hollows, decaying wood and ivy. Personally I wouldn't race to take it down if you don't have to.

 

I also wouldn't overthink the reduction work, it's not like it's going to compartmentalise the decay and carry on to form a beautiful tree, the cavities are there to stay and it's going to slowly fall apart whatever you do. Hack off bits before they fall off and injure someone for sure.

 

Then take it down.

[Jimanicricket]

14 hours ago, Dan Maynard said:

.... but it is great habitat in the meantime, in the hollows, decaying wood and ivy. Personally I wouldn't race to take it down if you don't have to.

 

I also wouldn't overthink the reduction work, it's not like it's going to compartmentalise the decay and carry on to form a beautiful tree, the cavities are there to stay and it's going to slowly fall apart whatever you do. Hack off bits before they fall off and injure someone for sure.

 

Then take it down.

 Thanks Dan, yeah the client doesn’t have the budget for it to just go and I don’t think they want it to go immediately either. Completely understand it’s not going to heal or cure the tree haha. If only it was that simple. I’m thinking just regular checks and take off each bit as it becomes bad to prevent injury. It is also a nice screen for privacy, wind etc. and does provide a great habitat suitable for a number of creatures. You’re right I guess I shouldn’t over complicate it. Cheers bud

[Jimanicricket]

14 hours ago, Steve Bullman said:

Unless you have a specific need to retain that tree such as for habitat, screen etc, then all you’re ever going to be doing is polishing a turd in a regular basis for several years to come. I agree with mark, 100% reduction 😀

Thanks Steve yeah there’s a few reasons such as not enough money/budget customer side, habitats, screen from wind, location and for privacy etc. don’t really want to just take the whole thing down either, understand it is a bit of a turd however haha if it was mine I would be taking much more off or getting rid completely and replanting in an ideal world. Thanks for the input, I appreciate it 

[Jimanicricket]

15 hours ago, Mark Bolam said:

100% reduction would be my advice. 
 

Thanks Mark, in an ideal world I would but that’s not possible due to a number of things. Appreciate your advice though, cheers 

[Mark Bolam]

You’re obviously new to Arbtalk Jimani.

 

We’re not meant to have sensible conversations where advice is sought and things are discussed and explained in a logical and adult manner.

 

[Jimanicricket]

36 minutes ago, Mark Bolam said:

You’re obviously new to Arbtalk Jimani.

 

We’re not meant to have sensible conversations where advice is sought and things are discussed and explained in a logical and adult manner.

 

Hahaha noted mate