Trees are one of the most amazing gifts nature has to offer, but sometimes a tree can suffer from unavoidable damage. If your tree has a crack, tree removal isn’t always the only solution. Five Star Tree Services has some suggestions that may help you preserve your tree if it is cracked.
How Do I Know If My Tree Is Cracked?
Spotting a crack in your tree is usually easy. In extreme cases, a large crack can be seen that splits the trunk into two portions. Smaller tree cracks also exist but are often only found when examining the tree-up close. Larger cracks are exceptionally treacherous for trees but slight cracks or fissures will also weaken the tree. This can leave it susceptible to break during a storm or other bad weather.
Causes & Types of Cracks
All tree cracks are cause for concern, but not all cracks are the same. A frost crack is caused by freezing and thawing temperatures. These types of cracks are smaller and usually don’t need any type of special care. Cracks that are benign weaken the tree overall and may result in a split trunk if not remedied. Cracks can also occur due to disease, decay or other internal issues. In some instances, ground erosion may cause a tree to crack. The biggest danger to a tree is that once it cracks, it becomes more susceptible to further damage from the elements.
Can I Save My Cracked Tree?
The most effective way to see if your tree can be preserved is by contacting a professional to assess the damage. In many cases, if there isn’t any infestation or decay and if the crack doesn’t reach the roots there is hope. Trees are able to heal themselves and with further help, they can achieve a full recovery. We offer a free evaluation for damaged trees so don’t wait to reach out to us for assistance.
How to Save the Tree
As mentioned, trees have the ability to regenerate themselves and can heal much quicker with assistance. We have a range of techniques like cabling and bracing that we may employ to save your tree. Our arborist will save your tree by applying metal rods threaded through the tree trunk. As hurtful as that may sound, these braces will give your tree the support it needs to heal. Depending on the size of the tree, we may need to install cables in the higher branches of the tree to help redistribute their weight. This will give your tree trunk the relief it needs to become more resilient.
What if It’s Too Late?
In many cases using braces and cables will help a tree to heal, but they are not always effective. If the cracks were caused by decay or disease, these methods will ultimately fail. If your tree was split all the way to its roots or if the tree is sick, you may have to consider removal.
How We Can Help
Five Star Tree Services is always here to offer assessment and treatment for cracked, sick or infested trees. Give us a call at (416) 990-3355 to set up a time for us to come out and evaluate your trees to see if it can be saved! Our team looks forward to serving you and any of your future tree service needs!