Honey Locust Trees, Berthoud CO - Ask Extension
Hi,
I have about 40 Honey Locust Trees lining a 1/4 mile long driveway. On several of the trees, the bark is peeling away exposing underlying wood....
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Honey Locust Trees, Berthoud CO #890911
Asked December 18, 2024, 2:35 PM EST
Hi,
I have about 40 Honey Locust Trees lining a 1/4 mile long driveway. On several of the trees, the bark is peeling away exposing underlying wood. The peeling seems randomly distributed around the trunk of several trees but not on branches. Looking at wood under the bark, the color is white to lite yellow. I also see occasional holes about 1/16" diameter in the underlying wood. I've been told that the peeling is physical damage from vehicle or wildlife but this seems unlikely given the number of trees involved.
I'm wondering if I should apply general systemic to the roots, peel off bark, or wrap tree with carboard. Or is more analysis necessary? Please advise on potential solutions.
Thanks
Larimer County Colorado
Expert Response
Hi Brent,
This must be the work of an animal - do you have elk or deer in your neighborhood? This doesn't seem like it's a natural thing, but the damage is so high up in the tree. I guess it could still be antlers? You can go and try to gently try to cut these pieces off, but don't tear them or cause more damage. The areas below will seal off and harden. Or leave them in place.
Probably best to place cages around the trees that have been damaged. And keep an eye out for fresh wounds. Cage as necessary. Make sure the cages don't touch the bark - keep them loose and just place around the trunks. While I want to recommend you do this for all 40 trees, I know that's asking a lot. Maybe there's a pattern to the damaged trees and where they are located?
This must be the work of an animal - do you have elk or deer in your neighborhood? This doesn't seem like it's a natural thing, but the damage is so high up in the tree. I guess it could still be antlers? You can go and try to gently try to cut these pieces off, but don't tear them or cause more damage. The areas below will seal off and harden. Or leave them in place.
Probably best to place cages around the trees that have been damaged. And keep an eye out for fresh wounds. Cage as necessary. Make sure the cages don't touch the bark - keep them loose and just place around the trunks. While I want to recommend you do this for all 40 trees, I know that's asking a lot. Maybe there's a pattern to the damaged trees and where they are located?
