Northern Pin Oak damage - Ask Extension
Had utility work done along side of the tree. Excavation included cutting a tree root. The cut resulted in a section of bark being pulled away from th...
Knowledgebase
Northern Pin Oak damage #843258
Asked July 29, 2023, 10:48 PM EDT
Had utility work done along side of the tree. Excavation included cutting a tree root. The cut resulted in a section of bark being pulled away from the base of the trunk. Images attached. What is the best treatment for this type of damage?
Hennepin County Minnesota
Expert Response
This is a good qauestion!
The Oak wilt risk in Hennepin County is still high so the cut should be painted with latex paint or shellac immediately to keep it from seeping. It is the sap that attracts the beetles that spread Oak wilt.
Would it cause any damage to use a nail to secure the flap of bark onto the trunk?
Steve Oakley
Steve Oakley
<personal data hidden>
On Jul 30, 2023, at 6:25 PM, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
It would be easier to cut the bark flap off and paint over the whole thing. Does that sound reasonable?
Steve Oakley
Steve Oakley
<personal data hidden>
On Aug 3, 2023, at 8:06 AM, Steve Oakley <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
Would it cause any damage to use a nail to secure the flap of bark onto the trunk?Steve Oakley<personal data hidden><image0.jpeg>On Jul 30, 2023, at 6:25 PM, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
I would not peel off the bark or nail it. The tree doesn't need your help and the paint is to keep it from oozing sap. Just try to get it in there as best you can without being too unsightly. It will wear off and the tree will heal itself over the wound. Then the bark will fall away.
