Can I Help a Tree With Damaged Bark?

It might have been a thoughtless maneuver with the new mower, or maybe it’s your teenager who was busy texting while backing out of the driveway. Regardless of the reason, sometimes our trees can get injured. Destroyed tree bark isn’t only an aesthetic issue, but it can be a severe health problem for your tree.

Tree Bark’s Function
The bark is the tree's skin. The outer layer of the bark shields the tree from diseases and insects. When this layer comes off, it opens the tree to potential decay and infection.

Also, the phloem is safeguarded by a tree’s bark. Phloem is a portion of the tree’s circulatory system and is vital for a tree’s survival. The phloem transports the energy-rich sugars, made during photosynthesis, through the entire tree. When the bark is eliminated, this flow of food is barred, and the damaged section of the tree starts to dry out.

So, what can you do to help tree damaged bark?

Assess the Extent of the Damage
If the damaged bark is less than ¼ of the total diameter of the tree, then the tree should recover from the damage if you maintain accurate tree care for it.

If up to 50% of the tree’s diameter is damaged, the tree can still survive, but it will have some severe injuries. Even with proper care, you can expect to see some die back in the canopy and trimming might be required. If over half of the tree is damaged, there is a little chance that the tree can live but it will necessitate a technique called bridge grafting. Grafting is not difficult but does entail some knowledge and skill. You should contact a tree specialist to help you determine your tree’s condition and decide if the tree is worth saving.

Fallen Bark
If the part of the bark that has been broken off is still connected at some point, you might even be able to reattach the whole thing. Put the damaged bark or bark piece back in the same location and direction it was before it fell off.

You will have to secure the piece using a strap or some other material, wrapping it securely around the trunk. This wrap will need to remain in place for at least 90 days so make sure you tie it snug and tight.

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