Co-dominant stems are two or more stems of similar diameter arising from the same union. They are common and are not an automatic reason for removal, but certain unions can be important structural defects.
Why can they be weaker?
A normal branch is usually smaller than the trunk it joins. Co-dominant stems compete as similarly sized leaders. Tight unions can develop included bark and less favourable attachment geometry.
What should you look for?
A tight V-shaped seam, embedded bark, cracks below the union, bulging growth, previous failures, decay or large stems over a valuable target are reasons to seek an assessment.
Can the tree be retained?
Often, yes. Young trees can frequently be structurally pruned. Mature-tree options depend on species, size, condition and targets and can include pruning, monitoring, support systems or removal.