Trees may be resilient, but they’re not impervious to injury and decay.
Urban and suburban trees can be damaged by cars, lawn mowers, construction equipment or improper pruning. In more rural or forest settings, tree wounds most likely result from storms, fires, or animals. Here’s what you can expect if you discover that one of your trees is wounded or damaged:
WOUNDED TREES
Tree wounds occur when damage extends beyond the bark down to the next layer of wood. Trees don’t heal in the same way humans do. Instead, they evolved to take care of themselves through a process called compartmentalization, which means they isolate the damaged tissue to prevent any infestation or infection from spreading and eventually cover it with a callus.
If your tree is wounded, the damaged bark will need to be carefully removed while leaving the healthy bark that’s tight to the tree. Removing healthy tissue can make the tree vulnerable to further damage and decay. Dressing the wound isn’t necessary and can impede the compartmentalization process.
TRUNK HOLES OR CAVITIES
Tree wounds can sometimes create a hollow space in the trunk called a cavity. In most cases, a tree can isolate the cavity and remain healthy and structurally sound. Cavities can also benefit wildlife, as many animals make their homes in hollow parts of tree trunks. If you want to avoid a family of squirrels from moving in too close your back porch, the cavity can be filled in but be mindful of the material used. Some materials can cause more problems down the road so it is best to use soft, expanding foam that will not affect the tree too drastically as it grows.
SIGNS OF TREE DECAY
Tree decay happens when bacteria, fungus, or pests enter the wood through a wound in the tree. Signs of decay include mushrooms growing in and around a wound, carpenter ants and branches that look weak or dying. Trees often react to decay with compartmentalization, just as they do with wounds.
HOW TO TELL IF YOUR WOUNDED TREE IS HAZARDOUS
If a wound is too large or if decay is widespread, a tree may become a hazard to your property and other people. Signs of a tree that could be dangerous include:
Large dead or detached branches
Cavities that aren’t healing
Cracks or splits in the trunk or branches
If your tree shows signs of being a hazard, it’s important to have it inspected by one of our arborists. In order to save the tree, pruning, branch removal or cabling may be necessary. In cases of extensive decay or branch death, the tree may need to be removed altogether and then the stump should be grinded.
CONTACT ALL-SEASON TREE SERVICE: EDMONTON’S TREE EXPERTS!
If you have a tree that looks like it may be wounded or decaying, call All-Season Tree Service. Our team of trained professionals will inspect the tree and let you know how and if it can be saved with pruning or cabling, or if your property would be better off with a tree removal service. Don’t hesitate to contact us today to make an appointment! We service Edmonton and all the surrounding cities!