GARDENING BY THE MOON
By: Dr. Robert E. Moon Harvest Horticulturist
Many of the complications for trees from the February freeze event this year have just begun to appear. As temperatures increase this summer, damaged trees will start to show more problems.
Trunks of trees will start to show vertical splits. These can appear from the soil line or higher up on trunks and branches. When you see these splits, leave them alone. Do not peal these open. The tree is healing these areas and if you disturb the bark, you will slow down healing and cause further damage to the tree. Do not paint, wrap or do anything to these splits. Let the tree compartmentalize the damage so these areas can heal.
Insects will start to attack these open wounds and insects are opportunists, so damaged trees will be a prime target. If you want to do something to help your tree, apply Bayer Bio Advanced 12 Month Tree and Shrub to your trees. This product gives 12 month insect protection plus it provides a slow-release feeding for your trees to encourage health and vigor. Apply as per the label and do not over apply.
You can also help restore vigor by removing sucker growth from the trunks and up as high as you can reach standing on the ground. Cut suckers off with hand clippers or loppers. Make sure the flat edge of the tool is against the trunk so cuts are made even and no growth is protruding from the trunk or branch. If you have a tree that is not leafing out on higher branches, then wait to remove sucker growth.
Unfortunately, you may have trees that were viable and putting out new growth in the spring but may still die. This is due to the vascular system being so compromised the tree cannot draw up enough water and nutrients for growth.
No one wants to lose a tree but if you do all the above and your tree still dies, realize the freeze damage was to great for the tree to overcome.