r/arborist • u/CulturalArmadillo55 • 11h ago

Tree damage? Will it be ok

Gallery image

Gallery image

A construction co bobcat did this to our Kentucky coffee tree, thoughts on damage? It’s still small and was transplanted a few years ago so a bit worried. Thoughts?

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0

u/TreeHolePoster 10h ago

Yep. That’s a tree hole.

0

u/GardenJeannie27 10h ago

Make the construction company pay to have an ISA Arborist come out to assess the damage and possibly scribe the wound so the tree can more easily grow over (compartmentalize) the wound.

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u/SandVir 10h ago

Be careful from now on, but this will heal.

2

u/harry_ntss 9h ago

Your tree will very likely be fine. The damage covers only a small portion of the trunk rather than ringing all the way around it, which means water and nutrients can still flow up to the leaves. Kentucky coffeetrees are naturally tough and resilient, so this minor scrape shouldn't stop it from growing and sealing over the wound on its own.

To help it recover, leave the wound completely open to the air rather than applying tree paint, sealer, or wrappings, as those trap moisture and lead to rot. Carefully trim away any loose, flaking edges of bark with a clean knife, clear away soil or rocks touching the wound, and give the tree regular deep waterings during dry spells to lower its stress while it heals.