Trees provide home owners with a great deal of benefits such as shade, a fun tire swing, clean air and a beautiful addition to any landscape. A large well established tree in a yard may seem indestructible, however no tree is immune to the possibility of becoming damaged. Tree wounds are actually pretty common and the causes include broken branches, impacts, abrasions, scrapes, animal damage, attacks from insects and fire. The damage from any of these causes result in a wound to the tree. Wounds usually end up breaking the bark and damage the food and water conducting tissues of the tree. Wounds will also expose the inside of the tree to bacteria and fungi that will result in tree decay. Tree decay cannot be cured and has the ability to shorten the life of a tree.

Tree Wounds

When a tree is wounded, it does not heal, but it seals up and around the wound. If you have ever seen a tree that has an abnormal looking nodule on the trunk then you are looking at a tree that has been wounded and sealed over the damage that was done. Tree wounds are the first steps that lead to tree decay. A tree has the ability to ward off any potential decay when it seals around the wound. If this is done successfully then the tree has cut off any future damage that may have come due to that specific wound or damage.

Bacteria and Fungi Tree Decay

Large trees that have been wounded can still continue on living, even with decay present. If you have ever seen a large tree that is hollowed out on the inside, but still produces leaves on tits branches and is a living tree, then you are familiar with a tree that has successfully sealed off the effects of the fungi or bacteria that cause decay in the tree. Trees like this are quite common to see, and will continue to live for sometime unless it sustains significant damage in the future.

Professional Tree Services

If you suspect that you have a tree on your property that may be experiencing tree decay, or if you have a tree that has recently sustained a fair amount of damage, contact Milam’s Tree Service for a professional tree inspection. Our professionals will inspect your tree and look for any sign of potential tree decay. We will inspect the trunk or branches for peeling bark and decayed or hollow areas. Large decay pockets as well as decay where branches meet the trunk can be a sign of serious structural problems. Mushrooms or conks growing on a tree are also indicators of decay causing fungus. Milam’s Tree Service will tell you if your tree poses any threat to you or your family. If your tree sits over a children’s play area for example, then it may be time to remove the tree if it has the possibility of falling down. Contact Milam’s Tree Service today for professional service and the best treatment available for your trees.