A girdled tree is a tree that has been damaged by the removal of a strip of bark from around the entire circumference of the trunk. Girdling damage can also be caused by damage to the roots of a tree that prevents water and nutrients from being conducted up the trunk to the leaves. Over time, this lack of water and nutrients will cause the leaves to turn yellow and eventually die. Once the leaves are dead, the tree will be unable to produce food through photosynthesis and will begin to slowly die. If this is not treated, the tree will die. In this blog post, we will discuss the best way to save a girdled tree!
P.S. When you need professional help with tree removal, please refer to our extensive listing of the best tree removal companies in your area. We’ll make sure they do a great job and get it done right!
Identify The Damage
The first step in saving a girdled tree is to identify the damage. If you see a strip of bark that has been removed from the trunk of the tree, then it has likely been girdled. This damage can be caused by animals, such as rodents or deer, that chew on the bark, or by humans using a tool, such as a saw or an ax, to remove the bark. If you see damage to the roots of a tree, it is also possible that the tree has been girdled.
If you identify any of these signs of damage, it is important to act quickly to save the tree.
Treat The Damage
Once you have identified the damage, you will need to treat it. Below are the methods to treat tree damage.
Wound Sealant
If the damage is minor, you may be able to simply paint over the damaged area with a tree wound sealant. Wound sealant is a type of putty that helps to fill in gaps and seal off exposed areas.
First, remove any loose bark or debris from the wound. Next, apply a generous amount of sealant to the exposed wood. It can be applied directly to the girdled area using a putty knife or brush. Finally, use strips of cloth or tape to secure the sealant in place. Once it dries, wound sealant creates an invisible barrier that helps to keep out pests and disease while still allowing the tree to breathe.
Wound sealant is available in many different formulations, so be sure to choose one that is specifically designed for trees. Apply the sealant according to the manufacturer’s instructions. In most cases, you will need to apply several coats to create an effective barrier.
Tree Grafting
If the damage is more severe, you may need to use a tree grafting technique to repair the damage. Tree grafting is a horticultural technique that involves joining two pieces of living tissue together so that they continue to grow as one. When done correctly, tree grafting can provide the girdled tree with the ability to transport nutrients and water, ultimately saving the tree’s life.
In another word, tree grafting is the process of attaching a piece of healthy bark from another tree onto the damaged area of the girdled tree. This will provide the girdled tree with the nutrients it needs to heal and will eventually allow the tree to produce its food again.
Bandage or Wrapping
Another method to treat tree damage is to wrap the damaged area with a bandage or cloth. This stops the bleeding and will help to protect the area from further damage and will allow it to heal itself. You need to remove the strip of bark that has been damaged.
This can be done with a sharp knife or saw. The area where you removed the bark needs to be clean and smooth. After the area is clean, you can apply the bandage or cloth. This should be done carefully, making sure that the bandage is not too tight and that no air pockets are left underneath. The final step is to monitor the wound closely, checking for signs of infection and taking care to keep the bandage clean and dry.
Add Water and Fertilizer
Once the bleeding has been stopped, add water and fertilizer to the soil around the tree. This will help the tree to recover from the damage. It is important to not over-water the tree as this can cause root rot. Remember to also check the tree regularly to ensure that the damage is not getting worse.
Conclusion
After you have treated the damage, it is important to monitor the tree closely. If you see any signs that the tree is not healing, you may need to consult with a professional arborist. With proper care and treatment, most girdled trees will eventually recover and continue to grow. When it comes to saving a girdled tree, quick action is key. By following the steps above, you can help your tree to heal and prevent further damage.