Question
Hello,  we have two beautiful Monkey Puzzle Trees in our yard. They are about 40 feet tall. Last year we noticed a crack, or fisher, on one side of the front tree. Both trees now have cracks on the southwest side.  The first is 2 feet up the trunk, about 3 feet long and 6 inches wide.  We can see into the tree where there looks like a lot of white ooze or sap. There is now another crack starting right above the first.  The back tree has a smaller crack towards the bottom of the truck, same facing side.

What could be some causes?  Are they dying? Can they be saved?  And, will they fall on our house?  We love these trees and they make great retreats for the local bird population.

We haven't been able to find anyone in our area that can help.Any information would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you!  Jodi

Answer
Hi Jodi:
Can you send me a photo of this fissure? Try to include the entire length of this crack in the image. The crack may have formed as a weakness within the stem.  When did you notice the crack?  How does the rest of the tree look?  Any other damage to the bark, especially on the trunk near the soil line?

It may be advisable to have a certified arborist to visit your tree to give you an assessment.  Check the yellow pages under tree services and make sure that the person is a certified arborist.  You may also consider contacting your local county Agricultural Extension Service to arrange for a "house call".

Regards
Steve