Split oak tree, can I save it?

mrpush · Jun 23, 2015

Hi,

I have a large oak, not sure which type yet, that formed a "y" right at ground level. Well one side (20" dia) split completly off leaving the other side (30" plus dia) still standing w lots of branches. So basically I have an oak with a large chunk removed at the base about 30" high. I would like to keep the tree alive. Its not a threat to property or life.

Can I smear some goo on the exlosed heart wood and bark perimeter to help the tree live a long GER life? (It has to be pretty old)

I will get pic asap. Bark is a bit dark looked more like cherry to me so I was suprised to see oak leaves on it. Not sure if red or white or?.

Sorry, images best i could do for now.

Thanks,

MP

jefflovstrom · Jun 23, 2015

If there are no targets I would just leave it alone.
Jeff

mrpush · Jun 23, 2015

jefflovsk said:
If there are no targets I would just leave it alone.
Jeff

Hi Jeff, I dont know what a "target" is you are referring too.

Thanks,

MP

treebilly · Jun 23, 2015

Targets= anything like buildings.
Leave it alone.

BC WetCoast · Jun 24, 2015

A target is anything that could be hit and damaged. Could be buildings, cars (if next to a road), people (near a house or pathway).

Risk is defined as the likelihood of an action multiplied by the consequence of that action. In this situation, if there is no target (hence no consequence) there is no risk.

Time is also considered. If there was a frequently used walking path next to the tree, then the risk would be higher than if the path was rarely used. Clearly, the likelihood of hitting someone on a frequently used path would be higher than a rarely used one.

Today's lesson on risk analysis is now over.

mrpush · Jun 24, 2015

Ok thanks. There is a path next to it but no immediate "targets". I was just wondering if some kind of treatment could be used on the wound like I have seen on cut limbs to help keep out bugs and disease and such.

My dad used to paint something on cut limbs on 150+ yr old oak. I dont see any issues on those spots but maybe the tree would have healed well anyway.

Thanks.