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Maple tree question #851195

Asked September 25, 2023, 3:27 PM EDT

Hello, I have a maple tree with a large crack up the trunk. I believe it is a crimson king maple about 20 years old. I really don't want to lose it, it is a great shade tree for my back porch. I am attaching pictures of the crack in it's trunk. Do you know what is causing the crack and what can I do to help it? The branches seem to be healthy. Thank you!

Franklin County Ohio

Expert Response

Thankyou for using Ask A Master Gardener! I really hate it when big beautiful trees crack like that, it makes me so sad.  Apparently, maple trees are prone to what is called frost cracks.  This occurs when temperature swings are severe. I found this article explaining the cracks.

https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/frost_cracks_in_trees

https://ask2.extension.org/kb/faq.php?id=622518

I hope this helps to understand frost cracks!  Enjoy your beautiful tree!

Leslie
EMG
An Ask Extension Expert Replied September 26, 2023, 8:54 AM EDT
Thank you Leslie!  The articles explain it very well, I appreciate your help.

All the best,
Amber Lowe

On Tue, Sep 26, 2023 at 8:54 AM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
The Question Asker Replied November 02, 2023, 1:23 PM EDT
Thankyou for using Ask A Master Gardener!
An Ask Extension Expert Replied November 03, 2023, 5:03 PM EDT

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