Knowledgebase
Is something wrong with this cedar treee as it has holes in the branches that have broken? #739235
Asked March 15, 2021, 7:45 PM EDT
As you can see from the pictures I have had to cut several broken branches from this cedar tree and everyone had some sort of hole in the branch.  I was told this is normal but would like a second opinion.  I love this cedar tree and hate to see it die can you confirm from these pictures whether it needs to be treated? I have seen no bugs or insects in the branches once I cut them up.
Bastrop County Texas
Expert Response
Hi John,
As long as these holes do not appear to be caused by insects and their is no lose sawdust or debris around them, then they are probably natural and should just be left alone. Do not be tempted to clean them out. Your tree has natural defense mechanisms when healing from a wound (pruning cut) and these holes are quite common. Just keep an eye on the tree to make sure that it remains healthy and vigorous. At this stage, I would not recommend treating or filling the holes, particularly as they are quite small.
The link below discusses the issue of trunk wounds in rather more detail.
Trunk wounds and decay | The Morton Arboretum
Liz Stansfeld
Travis County Master Gardener
