Someone backed over a pine tree in our yard and damaged the bark. The bark is skinned in several places. The tree was also pushed over a bit and now leans a little. A few small branches were also broken. What can we do to repair the damage to the bark and possbile root damage?

Reply to post by Sharon, on April 08, 2001 at 20:41:26:

I hope not to sound condescending by saying there is little-to-nothing that you can do to repair a tree.
So-called repairs may include removing broken parts with the least further damage, or cleaning up splintered ends.
Sometimes loosened bark can be re-attached if it hasn't dried too much and there is still live cambium beneath it.
The tree will "repair" itself by growing new tissue around or over wounded areas, to some degree.
Basically it outgrows the wound, rather than repairing the tissue that was damaged.
So, other than removing parts that are not likely to be worth leaving on the plant, treating the tree well and protecting it are the best things you can do.
Often a damaged tree may draw destructive borers to it, causing further damage.
Make sure the tree is not further stressed by inadequate or excessive irrigation, soil compaction, excessive pruning, etc.