Q. I have a number of large Thunder Cloud plum trees in my yard. My rambunctious and bored puppy decided to strip the bark off one of these trees (more than 75% of the trunk). I’ve read that it’s highly unlikely this tree will survive but is there anything I can do to try and save it? The trees are now protected by wire garden fencing! Joni Fuller – Gig Harbor, WA
A. Well this certainly is not the best thing that could happen to a tree I wouldn’t give up on it yet. Since you indicated that the tree is not completely girdled which would be a complete 100% circle removed around the trunk you still have 25% conducting (water and nutrients) tissue left. Also it is possible that your puppy didn’t gnaw all the way into the heartwood below in the damaged sections. Had there been complete girdling the only option to save the tree would be to insert what are called bridge grafts to reconnect the water and nutrient conducting tissue. If there was 50% or less of girdling or the wound is narrow you can protect the wound from drying out and the cambium (the actively growing tissue that forms the xylem and phloem – water and nutrient conductors) could fill in the gap. Asphalt grafting compound is used in both a bridge graft and to protect injured areas as they heal. Bridge grafts are usually done in the spring when the bark slips easily from the heartwood. If you think the damage is sufficient enough to warrant a bridge graft then a trained professional like a certified arborist – or a professional orchardist would be the best person to work this graft. Either way protecting the wounds now with asphalt grafting compound is essential. You can find it at some garden centers and hardware stores or online. An example brand would be: TangleFoot Tree Wound & Grafting Compound.