Aluminum tree tags are affordable, simple to use, and don’t require other specialized tools.
Aluminum Tree Tags
- Flexible system if you have inconsistent or small numbers of trees that require tagging.
- No specialists’ tools or equipment needed
- Cost effective
These tree tags can be purchased in quantities of 100 or 1000. Here is an option for purchasing 100:
https://www.forestry-suppliers.com/p/79366/11861/round-numbered-aluminum-tags
This was the lowest price I could find. A few other forestry suppliers had prices very similar, just a couple bucks more. Options on Amazon were limited and weirdly much more expensive, at least last time I looked.
I'd recommend using the longest nails you can find without exceeding the diameter of the tag holes. One of the only issues with using aluminum tags is the potential for the tag to be pushed off or absorbed by the tree as it grows. When using long nails, you can have
enough of the nail embedded in the tree for the tag to be secure, without having the nail fully flush with the tree and tag. When I learned how to tag trees, I was taught to always secure the tags with room to grow, like the second image (594). Of
course, this might not last a tree's entire lifetime, but
should get at least a decade (depending on tree species and how fast your trees grow). Tags can also be removed and reapplied if needed.
There's also systems like ARBOtag that might be worth looking into, since you're tagging so many. More automation, and they advertise being "the only tags that grow with the tree" (leaving room on your nails is equally effective, in my experience). Might be quicker and easier, if you're pressed for time. Also more expensive, and requires specific tools.
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