Question

tree down   I have the most beautiful elm on my street and a recent rare ice storm here in the Seattle ripped it into three pieces.  I have repaired it using cables and winches to re-erect it and bolts to hold it together.  Now, because I had to remove a couple larger branches, I have two about 4" in diameter that won't stop leaking.  It appears to me that the hydraulics pressure is just too high to allow sealant or roofing tar top set up.  Last night I even tried burning the end with a torch and sealing it all at the same time, but it just won't hold.  I' worried this leaking (which has gone on for 5 days now) will continue and rob the tree of needed moisture and remove nutrients.  Any suggestions?

Answer
I would not worry about the leaking--it will stop on its own. With spring soon arriving the upward pressure will increase and you may get more leakage. But do not worry about it under normal weather conditions the tree will not dry out. IF you were under a draught then you would need to water but I would not think that is the situation in Seattle. The wound dressing is not needed the tree will heal by itself --it fact faster without the dressing. I would let it grow.