Table of Contents
What Is Bark Inclusion?
Bark inclusion in trees refers to the presence of foreign material within the bark of a tree. This can include a variety of things such as other pieces of bark, wood, soil, or even trash. While this may not seem like a serious issue at first, it is important to understand that bark inclusion can have serious consequences for the health and safety of a tree. In this blog post, we will explore the causes of bark inclusion, the signs to look out for, and the importance of addressing it before it’s too late.
What Causes Bark Inclusion?
Natural Causes
Natural processes such as aging and weathering can lead to bark inclusion over time. This is a natural process that occurs as a tree matures.
Human-caused Causes
However, there are also several human-caused causes that can lead to bark inclusion. Improper pruning techniques, damage from lawn equipment, and construction activities are all common causes. For example, when a tree is pruned improperly, it can leave a jagged edge that can be a point of entry for insects and disease. Similarly, damage from lawn equipment can create wounds in the bark that can attract pests and pathogens.
Animal-caused Causes
Animals can also cause bark inclusion in trees. They can gnaw, rub or even damage the tree bark causing inclusion. It’s important to keep an eye on your trees to ensure they are not being damaged by animals.
What are the Signs of Bark Inclusion?
Physical Signs
Some of the most common physical signs include cracks, splits, and holes in the bark. These can be caused by a variety of factors, such as disease, pests, or mechanical damage.
Behavioural Signs
Additionally, there are behavioural signs that can indicate bark inclusion. For example, leaf yellowing or branch die-back can be a sign that the tree is struggling due to bark inclusion.
How to Identify Bark Inclusion
It’s important to note that it’s essential to differentiate bark inclusion from other tree issues, so it’s best to consult with a certified arborist to properly identify the problem.
What are the Consequences of Ignoring Bark Inclusion?
Structural Weakness and Decay
Structural weakness and decay can occur, which can lead to reduced tree health and lifespan.
Reduced Tree Health and Lifespan
Ignoring bark inclusion can also lead to reduced tree health and lifespan.
Increased Risk of Tree Failure and Fall Hazard
Additionally, ignoring bark inclusion can increase the risk of tree failure and fall hazard. This is why it’s important to address bark inclusion as soon as it’s noticed.
Treatment Options
DIY Bark Inclusion Treatment
DIY bark inclusion treatment can be done by cleaning the wound, removing the foreign material, and applying a wound dressing. However, it’s essential to be aware of the risks of DIY bark inclusion treatment, and if you are not comfortable with it, it’s best to seek help from a professional arborist.
Hiring a Professional Arborist
A professional arborist will have the proper equipment, knowledge and experience to safely remove the inclusion and properly treat the tree.
It’s important to consider the level of difficulty of the task, and whether or not you are comfortable with it, before deciding on which option to choose.
In conclusion, bark inclusion in trees may seem like a minor issue, but it can have serious consequences for the health and safety of a tree. By understanding the causes, signs, and consequences of bark inclusion, you can take steps to address it before it’s too late. Regularly inspecting trees for bark inclusion and consulting with a professional arborist when necessary can help ensure that your trees remain healthy and safe for years to come. It’s important to remember that if bark inclusion is ignored, it can lead to structural weakness and decay, reduced tree health and lifespan, and increased risk of tree failure and fall hazard. With the right treatment and care, you can ensure that your trees stay healthy and strong for many years to come.
