Tree Bark Damage to Prairiefire Crabapple Tree

Question: There is some damage to my Prariefire crab apple tree from a lawn mower incident. What is the best way to make sure I have a healthy tree? Currently we have wrapped the tree in twine to keep the removed bark on, as much of it was still attached to the tree. Is this the best practice?

Thank you

responder: Amy J. Extension Master Gardener - HC Replied August 25, 2024, 10:12 PM EDT
response: The damage shown in your photos opens your tree up to insects and disease. This vulnerability will likely cause the tree to decline -- it could occur in the near future or years from now. One of the best things you can do is to remove grass from around the tree so no further damage occurs. Wood mulch will further protect the area.   https://www.purduelandscapereport.org/article/equipment-damage-to-trees/

responder: The Question Asker Replied August 26, 2024, 11:11 AM EDT
response: Hello Amy,Thank you for your response.  The bark was loose on the tree, but it did not come off -We were able to securely hold the bark in place by some thick string - will this also help the tree to heal?I will use some wood mulch at the base of the tree (it was initially used but has diminished some).Would a white tree protector on the trunk also be helpful? Do you have any ideas so the tree does not decline?Thank you so much,MarilynFrom: "Ask Extension" To: "rakemp5157" Sent: Sunday, August 25, 2024 9:12:59 PMSubject: Re: Tree Bark Damage to Prairiefire Crabapple Tree (#0152750)

responder: The Question Asker Replied August 26, 2024, 11:22 AM EDT
response: Hi,Also one more question:  are there any sprays etc. that can be applied to open areas to protect the tree?Thank you!MarilynFrom: "Ask Extension" To: "rakemp5157" Sent: Sunday, August 25, 2024 9:12:59 PMSubject: Re: Tree Bark Damage to Prairiefire Crabapple Tree (#0152750)

responder: The Question Asker Replied August 26, 2024, 11:44 AM EDT
response: Hello,I'm sorry, I should have been more specific:  would a salve to the damaged areas like Lac Balsam help the tree?The damage is less than 25% to the tree: what i have read is that the tree should heal.Is that oorrect/Thank you again!Marilyn From: "Marilyn Kemppainen" To: "Ask Extension" Sent: Monday, August 26, 2024 10:06:00 AMSubject: Re: Tree Bark Damage to Prairiefire Crabapple Tree (#0152750)Hello Amy,Thank you for your response.  The bark was loose on the tree, but it did not come off -We were able to securely hold the bark in place by some thick string - will this also help the tree to heal?I will use some wood mulch at the base of the tree (it was initially used but has diminished some).Would a white tree protector on the trunk also be helpful? Do you have any ideas so the tree does not decline?Thank you so much,MarilynFrom: "Ask Extension" To: "rakemp5157" Sent: Sunday, August 25, 2024 9:12:59 PMSubject: Re: Tree Bark Damage to Prairiefire Crabapple Tree (#0152750)

responder: Amy J. Extension Master Gardener - HC Replied August 27, 2024, 10:17 PM EDT
response: It is suggested to remove bark that has been damaged. This opens up the area and allows callus tissue to begin growing - much like a scab/scar that we would experience. It is not recommended that you apply any type of substance to the impacted area. Below are two references that have more detail about this.    https://www.purdue.edu/fnr/extension/tree-wounds-and-healing/#:~:text=First%2C%20it%20is%20essential%20to,the%20oak%20wilt%20fungal%20pathogen.  https://extension.umn.edu/planting-and-growing-guides/storm-damage-landscape-trees#wound-repair-1443812