Frequently Asked Questions: Tree Wound

Question: My tree is missing some bark and the wood is exposed - what should I do?

Answer: Trees must be kept healthy in order to grow well. On healthy pine trees, bark damage that exposes only a square foot of wood or less is not very serious. Healthy pines produce a large amount of resin that will seal the wound and you don't need to do anything.

Bark damage on a deciduous tree, such as an oak, is generally more serious because the injured area will be infected by airborne fungi that will cause decay. However, if the tree is healthy to begin with, and if the damage isn't very extensive, then the injury will eventually seal itself and you don't need to worry. Healing could take up to a few years.

The only time you need to take action is if the damage is very extensive and not likely to heal over - in which case you should consider removing the tree before it becomes a hazard - or if the wound is such that it collects and holds rainwater. In this case you should trim the loose or ragged bark so the water drains away, being very careful not to damage any additional bark.

There is no need to apply a wound dressing of any kind. Fertilizer might help if you don't already fertilize your lawn.

Last modified 2006-10-10