Plant-hurting lights?

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on November 28, 2008 at 9:02 AM, updated November 28, 2008 at 9:13 AM
Remove your holiday lights each year so the wires don't grow into tree bark.
Q: I've seen many places that string lights in their trees and shrubs and keep them lighted throughout the winter or even throughout the year. Do you know if this practice damages the plant material?

A: Not that I've ever done this to any particular snowbell tree or anything, but when you leave strings of lights wrapped around trees, it's very possible for the bark to grow around the cords. The cords can then become embedded in the wood, making it impossible to remove.

That can create weak spots on branches that could later snap off and in worst cases, strangle a main trunk just like unremoved ropes and wires used in staking. So that's my main concern. This is less likely to happen in shrubs, but I'd suggest removing lights from any tree soon after Christmas.

Most of the newer lights produce very little or no heat, so that shouldn't be an issue.