How To Repair Splits In Trees

Why is there a crack or splitting tree on my property?

That's a common question we get as Certified Arborists. This is a common issue with many varieties of trees and is typically noticed early in a tree's life. Trees with thinner bark will typically have more than splits and cracks naturally occurring. Bark splitting and bang-up oftentimes results from a number of environmental factors. This is non to be dislocated with bark "sloughing."

Sloughing occurs when a tree'due south bark will modify its texture as it ages and peel or "slough" off. This sometimes appears like exfoliating all over the trunk. What nosotros're talking near is defined cracks or splits in the bawl.

What causes this?

The nearly common cause for splitting tree bark is from frost cracking or "sun scald." Sun Scald most often occurs on the southward to southwest side of tree trunks on immature trees with thin bark. On a warm winter days, the direct sun's rut warms upwards the surface of the bawl. Later on that night, these areas rapidly re-freeze. It'due south this expansion and wrinkle of institute cells that cause cracks to burst open up internally in the tree. The injuries are typically not visible until that following bound or even several seasons later. These slightly sunken, discolored areas start to lose bark from the decaying tissue.

Small frost cracks don't typically crusade serious damage to copse. However, they can provide openings where certain disease organisms may enter. This is especially truthful if the tree is in a weakened condition. Frost cracks are also the common nesting spot of insects. Not all of theses insects will feed on the tree, but will utilize these areas strictly as a abode. Large cracks can cause problems for trees, particularly when it increases the hazard potential of a tree that is shut to a potential target.

Can I do anything virtually it?

Tree Fertilization Sun Scald and frost cracks are all but impossible to prevent. Some property owners have had limited success with wrapping the trunks of young trees with reflective, white paper in the late fall to help insulate the tree better. These wrappings should be removed immediately in leap then not to concur moisture against the trunk and concenter insects. It is also of import to prevent substantial damage from frost cracks by promoting good growth throughout the tree's life, particularly when it is young. Be sure to water your young tree in times of drought and as well fertilize trees annually.

If y'all detect damage from frost cracking, remove any loose hanging bark. Utilise a sharp knife or woods chisel to give a clean cut to the wound area so the expressionless bark is not impeding the growth of the callous or "wound wood" that will grow to effort to compartmentalize the decay of the wound. This performance tin be performed by a local tree service that employs Certified Arborists if you are unable to do so or non confident in your abilities.

If you take cracks or splitting in trees on your holding we would be happy to discuss their impact on your tree'due south health. Please don't hesitate to contact the states for a free consultation for your copse.