We have several ponderosa pine trees on our property, and due to recent wildfires in our area, we were told to trim branches lower than 10 feet to keep fires from spreading.
We have trimmed a few branches before, both at the trunk and leaving a few inches, but this allows sap to drip freely, and someone told us that it also exposes the tree to disease and infestation by tree-destroying beetles.
Is there a recommended method of trimming these branches or of covering over the resultant exosed wood?
Thanks.
2006-07-14 06:46:06 · 2 answers · asked by buff 1 in Home & Garden ➔ Garden & Landscape
When you trim them, leave a few inches of the branch. If you do this you do not need a wound sealant.
What happens is the wood that you leave will die back, so even if the end gets infected, it makes no difference as it cannot get to the trunk, or living wood.
After a few months you can trim it closer to the trunk, usually taking small amounts off at a time to ensure you do not remove any more live wood.
Don't worry about the sap, that is the trees natural sealant and protectant. The flowing sap keeps any baterias or mold grom gaining a purchase. After it dries, it works as a natural sealant.
Remember, all those trees in the woods do not get sealed when a branch breaks off and most of them are alive and well.
2006-07-14 08:26:15 · answer #1 · answered by urbanbulldogge 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Severe trimming can lead to insect infestations. I bet you have a tree doctor in your area. Call on one for recommendations. Sap can be a pain, especially when it gets on your car. However, it is natural for trees to weep sap.
2006-07-16 21:05:41 · answer #2 · answered by Rainbow 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋