apple tree bark damage

Joey Meister

i was out putting new mulch around my trees when i noticed something had ripped a chunk of bark off of my apple tree, the wound is fresh and some bark is loose but attached,in the one picture you can see the piece of bark on the ground. is there anything i need to do to help it? or should i just leave it be and let it heal on it's own

Attached Thumbnails

     

Eric Frei

If you are onto it fast enough you could tape that bark back down and wait a few weeks, it might just bond.

__________________

Joey Meister

Thanks, i took some stretch tie plant support ties and wrapped them around it, they will expand as it grows if the bark bonds, hopefully it will heal

Eric Frei

If not, then carefully cut (they call it scribe) the dead bark from the living to expose the wound, paint with copper based fungicide often say every 6 months until the wound is sealed over.

__________________

Enthusiast1

Ensure the wound is protected from full sun to help prevent further damage and/or limiting the trees ability to deal with the wound. Trees (especially if vigorous and healthy)are capable of handling infection by pathogens such as fungi without the use of fungicides. Consider using the scenario at hand (if you can afford) to observe and learn. You may get the privilege of seeing the new bark forming. Give the tree a chance before assuming it's naturally occurring defences require intervention.

Just a suggestion.

Maintaining an environment for trees that encourages their good health is one of the best things we can do.