Tree Swings Are Great Summer Fun

We can agree that many of the best childhood memories involve a swing. It doesn’t matter whether it was a metal and chain swing from the school yard or a tire swing dangling from a favorite oak tree--the feelings were the same: Freedom. Joy. A sense of excitement that anything was possible.

Now that we’re older, we’d like to re-create those same feelings of wonder for our own kids by fixing up the perfect backyard tree swing. But then our parent brain kicks in: Which tree’s branches are sturdy and safe enough to trust? Which kinds of trees can withstand the beating that a child’s tree swing will induce?

Tree Service York PA knows all about trees--tree care is our passion and expertise. Use our handy guide to determine which tree in your yard is best suited for a tree swing.

Type of Tree: The tree you pick should be a well established, sturdy hardwood tree with horizontal branches. If you have an old oak tree, consider yourself lucky. Oaks might as well have been created for swings. In addition to their thick leaf covering to provide shade, most oak trees feature wide, strong trunks and sturdy horizontal growing branches. You should shoot for a limb diameter of over ten inches for the best swing experience.

Condition of Tree: Inspect any tree you consider to make sure it is healthy and free of rot or disease. Carefully look over the trunk and especially the branches. Do not use branches that are split, infested with bugs, or have a thin connection to the trunk. If the limb is dying, do not use it!

Placement of Swing: Make sure that the branches are long enough to place the swing with at least a 4-5’ clearance from the trunk. You could have the perfect tree, but if the swing does not have enough room to sway through its full arc, you’ll be looking at skinned legs and sad kids instead of fun summer memories.

Once you’ve picked your perfect tree, attach a tire or rope and board swing and let the fun begin! Who knows, after watching the excitement in your child’s face as they soar to the highest heights, you might want to jump on, too. And no one can stop you.

We love trees--so much so that we’ve built an entire company around tree care. If you live near York, PA, and have questions about tree trimming and removal, we’ve got answers. Call us at 717-216-4888.​