Peeled tree bark can be harmless or worrisome. Read here why the bark on tree trunks can flake off with tips for tried and tested countermeasures. This is how you can prevent tree bark from coming off.
What can you do if tree bark comes off?
If tree bark comes off, acause analysisis the first step. Naturally shed bark does not require any countermeasures. Frost crackscan be repaired with awound treatment by applying wound closure to the smooth cut edges of the wound. If the cause is fungal infections or pest infestation, consult a tree professional.
Why does tree bark come off?
The most common causes of detached tree bark are anatural process, wintrytemperature fluctuationsandpathogenic pathogens.
Tree species such as plane trees (Platanus) and silver birches (Betula pendula) naturally lose their bark every few years. Bark regularly flakes off on trees with scaled bark, such as pine (Pinus) and spruce (Picea). The problem becomes threatening when the bark on the fruit tree bursts due to massive temperature fluctuations. Bark peeling, which can be attributed to diseases and pests, is equally worrying. Prime examples are sooty bark disease on maple (Acer) and infestation with bark beetles.
What to do if bark comes off the tree?
If bark comes off the tree, acause analysis is the first step. Shed bark from plane trees or birch trees does not require any action because this layer of bark grows back.
If you recognize the detached bark as a frost crack on the fruit tree,wound treatmentmakes sense. To do this, cut the edges of the bark wound smooth and coat the edges of the wound with an organic wound closure agent. If you suspect fungal infections, such as the he alth-threatening sooty bark disease on maple trees or bark beetle infestation, it is advisable to consult a master gardener ortree specialist.
How can I prevent tree bark from coming off?
The best prevention against detached bark istree-friendly careandProtective precautions. These procedures have proven themselves well in the home garden:
- Water trees at any time of year when it is dry.
- In March and June, fertilize with compost for he althy growth.
- In August, fertilize with potassium-rich comfrey manure or patent potash to strengthen winter hardiness.
- Throw out deciduous trees regularly and cut them appropriately; Rarely cut conifers.
- Protect tree trunks from frost cracks with a coat of lime, jute wraps or raffia mats.
- Check tree bark monthly for pests and diseases.
Tip
Tree bark fulfills important tasks
All precautions to preserve tree bark are worth the effort. Without its bark, a tree is defenseless against the elements, pests and diseases. Each layer of bark performs important protective functions. Bark secretes resin to ward off pathogens. The bast contains the pathways for the supply of nutrients. Cambium is responsible for the thickness of the tree trunk, produces wound wood and is even edible.