How do I work around a tree in my fence line?

Question

I have a fence that was built about 4 years ago. There was a large oak tree that I wish to keep on the fence line. The fence was built around the tree; it not only removed the tree from my yard, but I didn't like the look of it: (not to scale, obviously)

fence--> -------[]-----------[]---[]  00
                                  |  0000  <--Tree
                                  |  0000
                                  |   00
                                  []-------------------[]--------[]
                                                                  |
                                                                  |
                                                                  |
                                                                  |

So I had someone come out and redo it to be like so:

fence--> -------[]-----------[]-----  00  ---[]-----------[]-----[]
                                     0000  <--Tree                |
                                     0000                         | 
                                      00                          |

Notice the chunk of fence that is connected to the posts [] and just floating next to the tree. Those are starting to come apart...

I'm looking for a good solution to maintain this design better. The floating pieces are actually connected with a crazy contraption of 2x4's behind the tree where you can't see it, but it's not very solid. I'm hoping to find a solution that will last more than a year or two.

score 3 · Answer 1 · answered Nov 12 '13 at 23:31

I had a similar problem. I had a wood privacy fence up to within three feet either side of the tree and closed the gap with the tree with chain link and planted flowering vine on the chain link portion. Works for me both functionally and cosmetically. Good luck.

Renshia · Accepted Answer · 2010-12-20T21:14:02.757

Build a wrought iron ring either around the back or depending on how big the tree is or around the whole thing.

Make a half circle with two horizontal 1" strips and 1/2" iron posts. 1 post every 8 - 12" would be enough. The two outside posts can be longer and set in concrete. You can easily make the diameter of the ring big enough to leave 6-8" of space for future growth. If you want to still block it off more you can string it with vinyl straps used on balconies or something that fits your style. Tabs welded to the outside posts would allow you to connect the boards coming from the wood posts to support them.

It would be a fairly simple build for someone with a welder.

score 2 · Answer 3 · answered Oct 03 '20 at 16:13

I have the same problem with a fence I am building. Wooden privacy fence, wooden fence posts in concrete. My neighbor suggested that I cut the fence beams (the horizontal 2 X 4's) in half and attach them together using hinges. That way the fence could "bend" around the tree. I haven't tried it yet, but perhaps something like that could work for you.

score 0 · Answer 4 · answered Dec 17 '10 at 23:23

Ok, you didn't describe what kind of fence you had installed. regardless, the posts should have been secured in concrete below ground level. If you are in a region that has frozen ground issues, then the base needs to be 3 to 4 feet deep in holes at least 8 to 10 inches in diameter, in southern climates at least 2 feet for ballast. If you properly secure the posts in a firm foundation in the ground, then a normal span of no more than 8 feet should stand secure. Can you elaborate a bit more on what you have done and type of fencing? My other concern is terminating a fence so close to a growing tree. The roots and trunk are going to expand. If the fence is too close, it will be displaced as the tree grows.

How do I work around a tree in my fence line?

4 Answers4