Tree Trunk Mechanical Wounds
A car lost control and ran into my tree. The bark is now loose and falling off. Can anything be done?
Mechanical wounds to the trunk of a tree can be treated! That is, providing it is done correctly and immediately. The technique is not always successful, but what have you got to lose?
Occlusion is an arboricultural term arborists use. Occlusion is the continued radial growth of new wood that potentially develops after a wound has occurred. It gradually grows over the wound and replaces the outer and inner bark and its important function.
Inner bark transports carbohydrates (energy) and growth regulating hormones down the tree to nourish and communicate with the tree’s root system. The outer bark also protects the inner parts or systems of the tree.
The all-important cambium, which separates the bark from the trunk has cells that differentiate into new inner and outer bark as mentioned above. New sapwood cells develop on the inside that conduct water and mineral elements up the tree to the crown. If caught early enough and treated as recommended, the tree has the potential to replace that lost bark, restore its function and significantly reduce the chance of decay.
Interestingly enough, if a damaged sheet of bark is loosened or knocked off, it can be stapled back into place and reattach itself due to those mysterious cambial cells. Both processes, as described, are contingent upon those creamy moist cambial cells from drying out. That’s why it is critical this process starts ASAP. If the damaged area got a little dirty, gently and lightly spray the surfaces with water. Do not try to scrub it off, as that will further damage and wash away those living cells critical to this whole process.
Plastic from a black garbage bag can be cut and wrapped around the wound and taped in place with duct tape both above and below. This treatment is designed to keep the area moist and protect it from the drying winds and sun. This wrap should remain in place for one growing season.
One additional point: This process is species dependent and does not work on resin producing evergreens.