How thick should a tree branch be for a tree swing?

I want to put a single-seat swing on one of the trees in my front yard. As far as I can remember, the recommended thickness (diameter) is 8 inches, but that is for when you are drilling holes in the branch to install the swing. I don't intend on drilling it, but rather knotting the rope around the branch instead -- what width would you recommend?|||I would abandon the Do It Yourself approach and err on the safe side by having SwingsRus construct one from welded steel girders solidly set in concrete foundations. They also have a wide choice of seats; the wooden toilet seat one is particularly comfy!|||It really depends on the weight that will be hanging from it. I personally have never used anything less than six inches in diameter. Remember to slip the rope through a length of tubing that will go around the branch - to avoid damaging the tree. Also leave a little slack around the branch when you tie it so that the branch has room to grow; otherwise you'll have to climb up there once in a while to loosen the rope. If it is too tight it could girdle the branch and damage the tree.





I hope this helps you.|||It depends on the species of the tree, how much the swing and occupant weigh, and how close to the tree trunk you tie the swing. A sound eight inch limb on most trees will hold an adult if you don't hang the swing too far out on it. .