A cherry tree is an important part of the landscape for many gardeners and homeowners. Its beautiful blossoms, vibrant fruits, and majestic stature can be enjoyed throughout the whole year. Unfortunately, one common problem seen with cherry trees is splitting bark. This can be concerning for many people and can cause significant damage to the tree if not addressed.
The reason why the bark of a cherry tree is most commonly seen splitting is due to the fact that cherry trees are naturally prone to cracking. This is due to the rapid growth of the tree, where the outer bark expands faster than the inner bark can keep up with. This causes tension in the bark, leading to cracks in the form of splits.Climate conditions also play an important role in this phenomenon. Hot, dry climates can often increase the splitting in cherry trees. Excess moisture can also cause the wood to absorb too much water, leading to swelling and subsequent cracking.
When the bark of a cherry tree is seen splitting, it is important to take action to address the issue. The best way to do this is to inspect the extent of the damage and decide whether to prune the affected branches or spray them with a fungicide to prevent further damage. Pruning should only be done when necessary, as it can be detrimental to the overall health of the tree. If the cracking has affected the entire tree trunk, then a fungicidal treatment should be considered.
It is also a good idea to take preventive measures such as mulching the soil around the tree and providing adequate water. This will help keep the soil moist and help prevent further damage from occurring. Additionally, if the tree is in an area prone to extreme weather conditions, such as a location with hot, dry summers, then it is beneficial to shield the tree from direct sunlight with a shade cloth or other similar material.
Experts from the Royal Horticultural Society suggest that the best way to address the splitting of the bark on cherry trees is to ensure that the tree is kept in optimum growing conditions. This will involve providing sufficient water, mulching, and ensuring that the tree is in an area with suitable temperatures. With careful attention and maintenance, it is possible to keep the cherry tree healthy and prevent further damage.
Through analysis, it can be concluded that the main cause of a cherry tree having bark that is splitting is due to rapid growth and environmental conditions. Although the issue can be concerning, it is possible to take suitable preventative measures to address the issue and ensure that the tree remains healthy. Following the advice given by experts, and keeping the tree in an optimum environment, is the best way to ensure that the cherry tree remains in good health.
Pruning Cherry Trees
Pruning cherry trees is an effective way to manage and address the splitting of bark. Pruning should be done carefully and with great precision, as incorrectly pruned trees can suffer from serious damage. Firstly, it is important to assess the extent of the damage and decide where and how to prune the tree. If necessary, a qualified arborist should be consulted before pruning begins.
When pruning cherry trees, it is important to remove only the affected branches. This will help to reduce the tension in the tree, allowing the other branches to grow healthily with reduced risk of further splitting. By pruning correctly, it is possible to reduce the chances of splitting and help ensure the longevity and health of the tree.
Although pruning can be an effective way to limit the amount of splitting occurring in a cherry tree, it is not the only solution. Therefore, if the tree is in an area prone to extreme weather conditions or has had a history of problems with splitting bark, then further steps should be taken. For instance, using an appropriate fungicide to prevent further damage is a beneficial precaution.
One piece of advice to consider is to use a fertiliser that is high in nitrogen. This is because nitrogen helps to promote healthy and strong growth, which can reduce tension on the bark and ultimately lead to less splitting. In addition, it is recommended that the cherry tree is kept mulched and also given sufficient water throughout the year in order to promote strong and healthy growth.
Root Surgery
In some cases, where the affected tree trunk is extremely weak and brittle, root surgery may be required to stabilise the tree. This is where a qualified arborist or specialist is required to assess the roots of the cherry tree and provide a solution to help address the damage. This can range from root pruning to deep root fertilisation, depending on the extent of the damage.
Root surgery is a very precise and complex procedure, and can be costly. Therefore, it should only be undertaken after careful consideration and assessment of the tree. Additionally, it is important to only use a qualified and experienced arborist for any form of root surgery.
Once root surgery is complete, it is essential to monitor the tree for further signs of damage. This will involve checking the tree regularly and providing adequate watering and mulching as needed. By taking these precautionary steps, it is possible to keep the cherry tree healthy and prevent further issues.
Insect Control
In some cases, the splitting of the bark on a cherry tree can be caused by infestation from certain insects. The most common of these is the cherry fruit fly, which can cause significant damage to the tree if left untreated. In order to address this issue, it is important to treat the tree with suitable insecticides or natural solutions to eradicate the infestation.
It is best practice to begin this process during the winter months, as this is when the insects are most active. Additionally, it is important to take precautionary steps such as inspecting the tree weekly and pruning any affected branches. This will help to contain the issue, while also preventing further damage to the cherry tree.
If insect infestations are left untreated, they can lead to significant damage to the cherry tree. Apart from the splitting of the bark, this can also lead to a decrease in vigour and productivity of the tree. Therefore, if the bark of a cherry tree is seen splitting, it is important to inspect for any destructive insect infestations and take the necessary steps to address the issue.
Fungal Infections
In some cases, the splitting of the bark of a cherry tree can be caused by fungal infections. These can be caused by a range of different fungi, such as the cherry bark tortrix or the eastern spruce gall adelgid, which can cause branches of the tree to weaken until they snap. In order to address this issue, it is important to take appropriate measures.
One way to prevent the occurrence of fungal infections is to ensure that the cherry tree is in an optimum environment. This can involve providing suitable water and mulch, as well as shielding the tree from any extremes of temperature. Similarly, it is beneficial to inspect the tree regularly, as this can help to identify any potential issues before they become severe.
In addition, it is important to use a suitable fungicide if the issue has already occurred. This should be applied to the affected areas of the tree, as well as to any nearby trees in order to
