Question
A large branch cracked off of our established apple tree the other day for no apparent reason. It left a large, gaping wound to the trunk that involves about a quarter of it. We would like to save the tree. Is there anything we should do, or would it be best to leave it alone?

Answer
Trim the loose bark off the wound and spray the wound with an insecticide called Merit. This will control any borers that may attack the wound and get into the trunk. Do not use wound dressing (paint) this will slow down the healing process. the wound will heal over time by itself. Trimming the loose bark and wood will make the wound cleaner and the cells around the wound will grow over the area faster.