After a storm blows through southern Minnesota, you might see several signs of damage in your landscaping, including your trees. But can a tree survive a split trunk? Professionals offering tree services in Prior Lake, MN, can inspect the structural damage and determine whether treatment will be an effective option.
Factors That Determine Survivability From a Split Trunk
If the plant has several other health problems or damage, its ability to heal may be compromised. Splits and openings in the protective bark expose the wood to problems that could eventually be fatal. The tree needs to heal itself to prevent insect infestation, disease, and decay.
Amount of Damage Present
The width and positioning of the split are major determining factors for the plant’s ability to heal and survive.
If the damage isn’t severe, arborists can use cables and braces to support the trunk while it heals. Some professionals might recommend leaving braces in place for many years, especially if the crack occurred at a naturally weak position, like a severe V-shaped crotch.
If the split is significant, the professionals might recommend cutting it down because it’s likely to fall in the near future. Wide cracks are far less likely to heal, although bracing can help for a while.
Age and Health of the Tree
So, can a tree survive a split trunk if it’s older and has other health problems? It is less likely to heal if it has existing problems like disease or other damage. Older trees may not have enough resources to heal several different problems occurring simultaneously.
Whether Pests Are Present
If you notice a split and see a parade of insects crawling in and out of the opening, this is a dangerous sign. The insects may be causing significant damage to the wood underneath the bark, which further weakens the trunk. Weakened wood increases the chances of the trunk breaking and dropping the canopy to the ground, potentially damaging your home or surrounding landscaping.
Why Splits in the Trunk May Occur
What causes cracks in the trunk? Some of the causes of splits include:
- Diseases
- Insect infestation
- Weak spots
- Poor growth trajectory
- Varying temperatures
- Lightning strikes
- Physical damage
- Accidents
If the plant has a small split, water may enter the opening. During periods of freezing and thawing, the crack may widen as the ice expands before melting. If this happens repeatedly throughout the winter, the crack may cause fatal damage.
Don’t Worry About Your Tree Health After a Storm: Call Northern Tree and Landscaping Service, LLC
When the stress of a storm pulls limbs in opposite directions, a crack might appear in the trunk. Can a tree survive a split trunk? Although severe trunk damage like a split is often one of the signs of a dying tree, some species can respond to treatment and recover to full health.
Contact our experts at Northern Tree and Landscaping Service, LLC. We’ll inspect the damage and determine whether tree support, cabling, and bracing can help it heal. For a free cost estimate for any of our services, call us today at (612) 919-7322.