Sap dripping from trimmed birch tree - Ask Extension
We trimmed a few branches from our birch tree on Mar 4, 2021 in order to get our RV into our driveway. Now the tree is dripping a lot of sap from the ...
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Sap dripping from trimmed birch tree #743054
Asked April 07, 2021, 2:03 PM EDT
We trimmed a few branches from our birch tree on Mar 4, 2021 in order to get our RV into our driveway. Now the tree is dripping a lot of sap from the trimmed areas. Is there anything we should do to the tree?
Mecosta County Michigan
Expert Response
Hello,
No, there is nothing to do. As the tree naturally encloses the cuts the sap flow will be reduced or stop. Do not seal the cuts as this will slow the natural healing process.
If your area has a drought this summer or fall, then keep the tree watered. Watering valuable trees during droughts is a good practice, whether you pruned them or not.
Next time you prune birch, you may do so in summer when sap flow is reduced.
https://pss.uvm.edu/ppp/articles/birches.html