Torching a wound?

[beastmaster]

While reading,"Pests of Landscape Trees and Shrubs," I came across several references where they suggest,"flaming a cut with a propane torch," as a method to kill certain pathogens after making a pruning cut on diseased wood.
I have never heard or seen this done. Anyone ever done this or know of it and if so is it considered effective or is it some outdated technique? I'm just curious. Thanks. Beastmaster

 

[Cedar Ed]

I remember a story of lighting blackpowder in the wound.

 

[daytondedrick]

Thats from Rambo!

 

[beastmaster]

I might try the black powder in an old oak. Fill the hollow with powder and see if it cures the problem. Bet it would take care of the squirrel problems too.

 

[treeseer]

i do it on some phytophthora aka beech bark disease and frothy flux and other infections.

Does not cure all but good results overall. :smile2:

 

[beastmaster]

Thanks Treeseer. I'll invest the time now to research it and iearn its applications.
I have a great interest in learning about tree diseases and pests. To diagnose and treat trees is a goal of mine.