Question
We recently had our Aspen trees trimmed.  They trimmed some branches right up to the trunk (cut into the collar) and now they are constantly dripping water.  Will this harm the tree and is there anything we should do to prevent disease?

Thanks.

Answer
Aspens tend to bleed if done in the winter or early spring. Pruning cuts should be made just outside the branch collar. Over time it will stop bleeding. About the only thing that needs to be done is to prevent insects from being attracted to the wound. I would spray the wounds with an insecticide called Merit. This will give protection for 3-6 months which should be enough time fro the bleeding to stop. Check with your local nursery fro Merit. Thee is not need to put anything on the wound for diseases--a wound dressing will slow down the healing process.