Quck answer
When repairing a split tree, it is important to act quickly to prevent further damage. Follow these steps:
1. Assess the split: Determine the extent of the damage and whether the tree is salvageable. If the split is too severe or affects the main trunk, it may be best to consult a professional arborist.
2. Remove damaged branches: Use pruning shears or a saw to remove any broken or damaged branches. Make clean cuts just outside the branch collar to promote healing.
3. Support the split: If the split is small and manageable, use tree straps or cables to pull the split together. This will help the tree heal and prevent further splitting.
4. Secure the split: Use screws or bolts with washers to secure the split. Place them strategically along the split, ensuring they do not penetrate the trunk too deeply.
5. Monitor and care for the tree: Regularly check the tree for signs of healing or further splitting. Water the tree adequately and provide proper nutrients to support its recovery.
Remember, tree repair is a delicate process, and it is always recommended to consult a professional if you are unsure or dealing with a large split.
I noticed that one of our decorative trees had a split in the area where two larger branches met. Removing one of the branches or cutting off the entire section of the trunk would disrupt the balance and appearance of the tree. I needed to find a way to temporarily hold the split together without damaging the trunk so that it could heal. If you have a split in a decorative or fruit tree that you want to save, here is one method you can use.
Step 1
Tools I used for tree mending
EVALUATE THE SPLIT — Is there enough bark on both sides of the split? If not, the side with less or no bark will eventually die, as the layer directly under the bark provides nutrients to the branches and leaves. Can you bring the two sections back together? This is necessary to prevent further splitting and allow the tree to heal over the wound. In my case, the split was relatively recent and there was sufficient live bark on both sides.
Step 2
Threaded rods (A) and cable or rope (B)
SELECT A SUPPORT METHOD — You need a way to bring the split back together and keep it in place for several years as the tree grows around the split. For larger trees, you can use a winch and rope or cables (B) to bring the halves back together above the split. Then, you can drill through the split and insert threaded steel rods (A) with washers and nuts on both ends to secure the split. Eventually, the tree will grow around and cover the rods.
In my case, I had a small Redbud tree with a diameter of 3 inches. I used garden twine to bring the halves back together. But how could I keep it in place? I decided to apply ‘gorilla glue’ to the split. This should hold it for a while, and some twine above the split could provide additional support for the first year.
Step 3
Apply glue to the split
APPLY THE GLUE — Once the support method was chosen, I opened up the split and used a popsicle stick to apply the glue to both sides of the split. You can see the glue starting to expand and fill the gap in the picture.
Step 4
Secure and support until the glue sets
PROVIDE ADDITIONAL SUPPORT — Then, I tied the branches above the split so that I could bring the split back together and allow the glue to dry. I temporarily wrapped twine around the trunk while the glue hardened. I will remove this in a day, as I don’t want to damage and kill the tree. The twine above the split will remain for a few weeks until I am confident that the glue will hold — it is tied around the branches and I don’t want to harm them either. I will later apply another rope or twine to the same branches, but not tie it all the way around each branch.
Step 5
ATTACH BOLT/NUT — I must confess that after several weeks, the adhesive did not maintain its hold. In order to secure the trunk, it will need to be bound together for a couple of seasons to allow the bark to grow around the fissure. Consequently, I fastened the trunk together and utilized a spade drill bit to create a 3/16″ aperture through the trunk. Subsequently, I inserted a 3/16″ carriage bolt through the aperture, affixed a washer and nut to the end, and tightened it securely while still keeping the split intact. NOW it will undeniably remain intact. 🙂
