Question
My father  has a black locust tree ( at least I believe it is) and there is a large hole in the trunk of the tree due to a limb being ripped off in a storm.  Because we live in Pennsylvania, my dad is concerned that the upcoming winter will kill the tree due to the hole.  Is there anything that we can put on the tree to help save it?  My dad really likes the tree because it gives shade where he needs it so he would like to do something to save it.  Thank you.

Answer
The tree will heal over the wound with time. Cut any loose bark or wood splinters flush with the trunk and this will speed up the healing process. Do not put any wound dressing on the area this will slow the process. This break will not kill the tree. The worst thing that could happen is over many years fungi could enter the wound and start to decay the wood inside causing a hollow tree. This is not really a concern since this process would take many many years to do enough damage to the strength of the trunk. Black locust is a strong wood and not easily decayed. Tell him to not be concerned about this tree.