What is one negative effect of leaving guy wire support on a tree for too long?

Leaving guy wire support on a tree for an extended period can lead to significant issues, primarily because the wire can create pressure points on the tree's surface where it is attached. As the tree grows and sways, the guy wire can embed itself into the bark, leading to eventual girdling of the trunk. This damage can restrict the flow of nutrients and water, weakening the tree over time. In severe cases, the stress caused by the wire can result in the breakage of branches or even the entire tree, leading to instability and potential safety hazards. Thus, managing guy wires is crucial to ensure that they are removed when they are no longer needed, allowing the tree to grow freely without risk of injury.