By Lordderby
hello ! I live in Audlem, South Cheshire. 9 years ago I planted an apple tree, Lord Derby, in the lawn.
Two years ago, my son was cutting my lawn and crashed into the bottom of the apple tree, right next to the ground. We put a bandage round the wound but that has now rotted, leaving the gash exposed - about 7" high and 2" wide and taking off the outer layer of the bark. What is the best way of sealing the wound ? is there something I should be spraying onto the wound or shall I just put another bandage round it ?
the tree is now in full flower and seems happy but I am concerned that something, other than the ants which are in the wound, might get into it and kill the tree. I don't know what is the best thing to do and would appreciate your advice. thank you. jilly (haven't got a photo of the wound).
24 Apr, 2014
Answers
If the bandage excluded the air it may even have retarded a callus forming. Put the sticky anti-ant bandage above the wound not round it.
24 Apr, 2014
There is a now a lot of evidence that wound dressing is not a good idea
"Quote Wound Dressings
Research indicates that wound dressings (materials such as tar or paint) do not prevent decay and may even interfere with wound closure. Wound dressings can have the following detrimental effects:
Prevent drying and encourage fungal growth
Interfere with formation of wound wood or callus tissue
Inhibit compartmentalization
Possibly serve as a food source for pathogens
For these reasons, applying wound dressings is not recommended. Trees, like many organisms, have their own mechanisms to deter the spread of decay organisms, insects and disease.
The ants are as likely to be taking aphids up the tree to feed, use a sticky bandage to stop them.
24 Apr, 2014