I have a young silver maple tree that some kids
stripped the bark off the trunk. Iwould like
to know if the tree will be O'k or if there is anything that needs to be done to help protect
this tree. Any advise will be greatly appreciated.

Reply to post by Rick, on June 30, 2000 at 10:07:14:

Rick, not being there to see the tree and its condition makes it nearly impossible to give good advice.
I will offer a few thoughts, however. Trees have the ability to recover from injuries by making barriers to decay and by growing new cells over the wounded parts.
There are many factors entering into the success or failure of a tree to do this.
The size and severity of tissue destruction, the pre-existing condition of the tree, and the availability of adequate water, light, nutrients, etc. all come into play.
If the bark has been stripped all the way to xylem (wood), and if it is damaged all the way around the stem, then the tree will likely die from girdling.
The top part of the tree produces food for the roots and stem.
Damage to conductive tissue will interfere with transport of this food.
Decay or pathogenic organisms may be introduced to the tree at the wound.
Decay may progress into the wood, causing a structural weakening that can have serious consequences later on.
You may want to get a local qualified professional to give you an assessment of your tree's condition and recommendations for care.
Good luck.

Reply to post by Rick, on June 30, 2000 at 10:07:14:

I have a weeping willow tree that is approx. 4 years old. The bark is split open in several areas of the trunk and also the limbs. the splits are gapped wide open and the splits appears there is rotted material in some of the splits. schould I be concerned, and is there anything I can do to help the tree. any advise would be appreciated. thanks, Roger Philpot