Hanging baskets – Limb damage

Q: Do hanging baskets on tree limbs causes any damage to the limb? What can be used to suspend the pot that would not have a negative effect on the tree?

A: It somewhat depends on the weight of the basket and how much it swings. My favorite hanging system involves a nylon strap or a leather belt at least an inch wide. The wide surface of either one bearing on the upper bark would leave little damage. Chain or wire is never appropriate.