Alder suckering at base.

[Stereo]

I've got a mature alder in my garden which I a toying with taking down. I've felled a few dead ones of about the same size over the last year or so. The problem I have is that this is an easy fell at the mo but we are thinking of putting a fence under it. I don't want to have to take it down in 5 years with complications under it.

 

So. Is a clump of new shoots from the base a bad sign for the main tree?

[sloth]

Not entirely sure what you're asking. Are you thinking the suckers are a sign of an issue with the main tree, which you would rather keep if it's not got issues?

[Stereo]

Pretty much. Yes.

[sloth]

Some pics would be good, but simply suckering does not mean there is basal decay or root problems. How does the crown look compared to other similar sized/placed alders in the area, any die back of twigs/shoots?

[Stereo]

 

Hopefully some pics

[Stereo]

I should say that the tree looks healthy in itself but I have come across quite a few lately of this size which have expired quit quickly.

[kieran connell]

it maybe retrenchment, suggesting the tree has some sort of issue, possibly to do with the site.

whats the ground like? is it wet or dry?

it is also important to check wether the tree it self is suffering from fungal or insect attack.