On another site I have disagreed with some southern ans CA aquaintinces as to the above practice.

They argu that since palms are monocots and have a different vascualr system, they do not compartmentalize and gaff wounds will not adversly effect them.

I dont know anything about palms sooo.....

Reply to post by JPS, on January 23, 2002 at 19:51:39:

Well, looks like bs...
I'd say gaff wounds will not adversly effect any tree in case the tree is healthy and the wound is not circular.
OK, there is SOME logic in the statement you heard. But I don't see any sence in the word adversely in the case! What did they mean?
I've seen lots of over-mature Pinus sylvestris with almost circular boxing damages on DBH and staying with such damages for years.
I don't mean it doesn't hurt trees at all!
I would say that circular damage will certainly kill a dicotyledon, but probably won't kill a monocotyledon.
Just thoughts...

Reply to post by Zvonka, on January 23, 2002 at 19:51:39:

My assumption is that they are good people that feel they need to justify poor practice to remain competative in a cuthroat market.

My opinion about gaffing any plant is that unneeded wounding of any sort is not good for a plant. they respond that I just don't understand they way moncots grow.

Reply to post by JPS, on February 14, 2002 at 05:15:15:

I'm on your side!
Wounding AS IT IS of any sort is not good for a plant.
They respond rather funny, maybe they don't understand YOU. It doesn't matter if you understand they way moncots grow or not. The matter is that you are right talking of wounding.

Reply to post by Zvonka, on February 18, 2002 at 14:39:15:

My thoughts exactly.

They understood my stance, just did not want to accept it.