If a tree is infested with Emerald ash borers and other fungi-causing bacteria, these problems will not only inflict wounds to the tree — if left untreated, these may eventually lead to the death of the tree. As depicted by famous tree surgeons – Tree wounds are basic and normally include broken trunks, scraped spots and branch scratches, harm from wild animals, insect and pest infestation, and fire. These wounds uncover the insides of the tree, making it susceptible to microscopic organisms and other growths that may lead to staining and the destructive decay of the trunk and roots.
Decay can develop and bring about frail tree limbs that can harm the growth of the tree. Decaying trees also cannot be saved since there is no cure for decay. However, proper tree maintenance done by a professional tree arborist can restrain the further advancement of decay in a damaged tree. The preventive ways and treatment for tree wounds are discussed below, as well as tips to maintain the tree’s wellbeing.
1. Isolate the Injured Tree Tissue
As soon as a tree is injured, the harmed tissue is not easily repairable and does not instantly mend, either. This is because injured trees don’t recuperate — they close out. If you look closer at the tree’s wound, you will realize that it does not mend from the back to front, however in the long run the tree will blanket the opening by forming a particularly callus type of bark around the edges of the injury.
2. Trim the Edges of its Bark
Tree wounds frequently seem battered if their bark is torn amid the damage. This is normal during limb breakage and when the trunk of a tree has been scratched. To repair this sort of harm, cut off any battered bark edges with a sharp blade. After that, carefully remove the remaining bark and uncover more internal tissue. Make sure that this injury will form like an extended oval, with a long pivot point running vertically along the trunk line, ensuring that the entire bark around the injury is tight.
3. Do not Apply any Tree Wound Dressings
Recent studies demonstrate that wound dressings (tar and paint are commonly used) don’t work well with decay and may even meddle with wound healing. Wound dressings can counteract drying and serve as a breeding ground for harmful pathogens.
4. Avoid using Cavity Fillers
Filling vast gaps or hollows in the tree is, for the most part, utilized for cosmetic purposes only. There is little information to demonstrate that a filled tree can contribute to the tree’s healing. In addition, filling a tree cavity is usually a costly endeavor and is therefore not recommended. Along these lines, this cleaning for cavity filling can have more negative impacts on the tree than in the event that it was allowed to sit unbothered. Extreme caution must be practiced so as not to harm the new callus tissue that has structured because of the tree injury and ensuing decay.
5. Proper Pruning of the Tree Wound Area
Anyone who truly cares about their trees should hire a professional to properly prune their injured tree. They have the proper gear when it comes to removing leaves, limbs and dangerous branches, while also being careful to maintain the form of the crown. Furthermore, improper pruning of any sort puts stress on the tree by uprooting the nourishment created by leaves.
Conclusion:
If wounded trees are properly maintained and regularly looked after, they can typically recoup from injury in a timely manner. Try to keep injured trees developing and healing on their own by watering them amid dry spells and providing regular fertilizers. This will improve the rate of wound healing, improve callus development and enhance its strength against the elements of decay and bacteria.
Stewart Scott is a certified arborist and is the owner of Cevet Tree Care, where he offers the best tree service Columbia MO has to offer. Cevet has provided tree trimming and other tree care services to mid-Missouri for almost 20 years.
