I HAVE A VERY LARGE COTTONWOOD NEXT TO MY HOUSE THE TREE APPEARS TO BE HEALTHY,HOWEVER I HAVE NOTICED SOME AREAS WHERE IT BLEEDS A KIND OR RUST COLORED SAP, THE OTHER NIGHT WE HAD SOME FAIRLY STRONG WINDS AND A LARGE LIMB BROKE OFF, INSIDE THE LIMB, I FOUND DECAY AND TERMITES. MY QUESTION IS CAN SHE BE SAVED,SHE IS VERY OLD AND VERY BIG,AT LEAST 3 STORIES TALL AND ONLY A FEW FEET FROM MY HOUSE. ALSO, SHE IS A PART OF OUR FAMILY AND I WOULD HATE TO LOOSE HER. PLEASE HELP HER.

Reply to post by Lori Howe, on May 28, 2001 at 14:12:03:

You obviously care a lot about this tree. You would do well to get a qualified local arborist to assess the situation and make recommendations. First hand inspection can be far more thorough than remote guessing.
You should know what kind of cottonwood you have. Is it native to your area? Has it been damaged by any changes, such as root disturbance, soil compaction, grade change, etc.?
Termites are usually a sign of existing decay, although there are some exotic species I've heard of that attack live tissue. Decay needs to be examined to make sure you are not in danger of further imminent tree breakage.
Your arborist should be able to work out a watering schedule or other actions to reduce stress on the tree.
The bleeding you describe may be a bacterial infection. Reducing stress and protecting from damage are the best places to start. Careful dead wood pruning may enhance your safety and the trees appearance.