It's simple, don't use a tree. I've carried poles (Shafts for golf clubs are remarkably light and do a great job, or you can just use a few segments of tent pole), or when I feel daring, I rely on the site to provide, either sticks lying around or other natural features. I've used trees (only when there was no chance of lighting, and I did an inspection for dead limbs; you're right, trees can be dangerous), rocky outcroppings, and my bike itself on more than one occasion.

I'm going to have to disagree about the lifespan of the tent though, my tent (or one of them) is going on thirty years old, and it's just starting to show it's age. It did cost an arm and a leg when it was purchase, but it's decades of great service have been more than worth it. It's still lighter than most of the tents on the market right now. The only reason I'm still not using it is because I loaned it out, (big mistake) and the borrower let the fly mildew, so the waterproof coating has begun to wear off. I've done some work to renew it, but there is only so much can be done.

I put off buying a new tent because I had a hard time justifying a new tent that weighed more than a 30 year old one, and one that was practically guaranteed to be less durable.