Question
Damaged Bradford Pear
Recently, vandals tried cutting down a large Bradford Pear (~10-12 inch diameter) and cut a circle around the entire circumference of this tree. The cut protrudes beyond the bark. Is there any hope that the tree will survive? This happened about a month ago and so far,no obvious evidence that the tree is dying. Thanks.
AnswerThe cambium layer of cells is between the bark and the wood. This is the layer that is living and providing water and food to the leaves. When this layer is cut all the way around the trunk the tree usually dies. I would say it is a very slight chance that the tree will make it. The cut may have not been deep enough or wide enough to kill the tree. You can try putting grafting wax in the wound This should help hold moisture for the cells to grow, I would also watch the area for signs of insect activity _boring dust or insects present and if these are found spray the are with an insecticide called Merit--this will keep borer type insect from entering the wound. Check with your local nursery for the grafting wax and the insecticide.
