Swings under a tree limb can be great fun, and there are many kinds. An old tire on a rope and a board with one rope attached in the middle are fun and can swing in circles and multiple directions, unlike a double rope or chain swing which can only move forward and backward.
While most swings are for only one person at a time, porch type swings with backs may be enjoyed by two or more people simultaneously. Whatever the preferred type of swing, there are several considerations to ensure safety for the user and to avoid damage to the tree.
First, be sure to select a limb that can safely support the swing and user. It should be one attached to the trunk with a solid crotch and should be as level as possible and not growing at a severe angle.
It should be mature enough to be rigid and not move significantly when in use. It should also be situated so the swinging direction is clear of any obstruction that could injure the user.
This is very important when the swing is a multi-directional single rope, cable or chain type.
A simple swing under a tree can produce hours of entertainment and relaxation. Following a few basic fundamentals can produce a safe swing at a very reasonable cost.
Finally, pick a healthy tree that is a species not prone to decay and is free of dead or decaying limbs in the crown which could present a threat to the users.
Once a proper installation location has been determined, the next step is to decide how to install the supports so they do not damage the limb. Since tree limbs increase in length and diameter annually, the rope, cable or chain must not be tightly wrapped around the limb.
In time, as the limb increases in diameter, the rope, cable or chain could girdle the limb, introduce decay or even cause the limb to die. Even if the suspension material is loosely attached around the limb, serious abrasion of the protective bark may occur, introducing decay or decline of the limb.
Generally, it is better to use galvanized steel eye screws to attach the swing to the limb. Limb anchors should be installed to minimize limb damage and to ensure their attachment points are level to the ground.
Swing supports for a two-rope swing must be of equal length to swing in a straight line. One of the best ways to minimize limb damage is to install eye bolts to the underside of the support limb.
Getting the swing’s support aligned is key to straight motion which will be safe for the rider. Modern inputs make the task far easier than in years past.
These fixtures make the necessary leveling adjustments to the two ropes or support cables/chains when the limb elevation changes easy.
For minor adjustments in elevation, the length of the bolts may be adjusted to level the swing by altering the depth to which they are installed into the limb.
For more major leveling of the bolt’s eye attachment point, you may need to install longer and sturdier bolts through the limb. Leveling can be accomplished by placing a washer and nut above the limb to fine tune the swing.
Once the swing is installed, the remaining consideration depends on damage avoidance to the area under the swing. With a bench type swing always moving in the same direction, foot contact will ultimately wear any vegetation, leaving a groove or trough for rain to puddle in.
Installing a hard surface is not a good idea if the swing is for children as inevitable falls would risk injury. But for a porch type swing, installing brick or gravel to prevent wear might be appropriate and add to the landscape’s charm.
Pleasant spring evenings with cool breezes and lightning bugs will soon be here. Spending a leisurely evening swing under a tree is a great way to relax.
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