Damson in way of fence

Hi all, I am new to this forum and need some advice.

I have to replace our old all-wooden fence with concrete posts and gravel boards but right next to where one of the old posts stood a damson tree has grown breaking the post off at ground level. I can put new posts in either side of the trunk, but it is in the way of the run of the gravel board.

Would it harm the tree if I cut a slice off the side of the trunk to accommodate the gravel board and then apply a sealant to the wood? I reckon approx. 3"/10cm needs to be cut off as per attached photo (12" ruler next to trunk, string shows run of gravel board).

Thanks.

 

Welcome to Gardeners Corner Lazzah. As frustrating as it may be regarding your fence, I think you may open up the tree to disease if you cut it, it may also affect the top growth. Think of it like a nerve in your body, if it's damaged other parts don't function well. Seeing how the tree is placed, is it yours or your neighbours? If you decide to take the risk you should gain their permission first if they own it.

Is it not possible to cut the gravel board to continue either side of the tree?

 

The tree is in my garden.

I didn't think of that! I will have a word with the fence erectors, the gavel board is concrete but I am sure they will have come across this before.

 

Or lay a few course of bricks in lieu of using a gravel board for that section of fence, so they can be cut and fitted around the trunk (leaving some room for future growth) using some that match the colour of the concrete gravel board, or even a combination of cut gravel boards with brick infill around the tree? (with the cut ends of board in the fence post grooves for a neat appearance).