Tree Wounds
Trees are wounded when the bark is broken and the trees inner bark or wood is exposed to the air. Wounds to trees can occur by many things including:
Tree wounds can be classified into 3 primary types:
Decay is a condition that results from the digestion of wood by fungi and other microbes. Wounds through the bark start the processes that lead to decay, but proper care of wounds can lessen the chance decay will occur.
When a tree is damaged (wounded) a natural process begins that results in the covering of the wound by bark and new wood. This natural process of wound closure is also known as callusing over or wound healing. This process also begins to make the wood beneath the wound unsuitable for the growth of organisms that cause decay. Wound Problems
If pruning is necessary, prune dead and dying branches properly to help the tree heal its branch wounds faster and to reduce the chances for infection that could lead to decay. Proper pruning will help the tree, while improper pruning only causes the tree more trouble . Many microorganisms use old dead stubs as springboards into the trunk. Cankers: Canker-causing microorganisms often become established on dying branches before invading the trunk. Most cankers start from poorly healed branch stubs. Splits: The bark often splits above and below poorly healed branch stubs. These splits are additional entry points for trunk-infecting microorganisms. Hollows: Water often fills the hollows associated with very old branch stubs. Do not bore a hole to let water out of a hollow, because this will permit decay to spread into the healthy wood that surrounds the hollow. How to Treat Wounds:
#1- Remove dead and injured bark, from around the wound with a sharp knife. Scribe wound in the shape of a vertical ellipse, if possible. Cut bark away from wound to form an interface of healthy wood and bark, although this may enlarge the size of the wound.
#2- Prune dead and dying branches to increase tree vigor.
#3- Remove dead and fallen branches and trunks from the ground nearby. Such dead wood may harbor wood-inhabiting microorganisms that could infect wounds.
#4- Thin out and remove less valuable trees nearby to reduce competition for nourishment in favor of the wounded tree.
#5- Fertilize and water the tree properly to increase vigor.
#6- Discuss the wounded tree with professionals including your local Master Gardeners or County Extension Agent.
#7- Apply some wound dressing, if desired.
#8- Establish a maintenance program. |