Triggered by wide fluctuations in winter temperatures, it causes bark to crack or slough off. When the sun sets or is blocked by a cloud or building, bark temperature drops rapidly and active tissue dies. There are two ways to prevent sunscald. Shade the southwest side of the trunk or cover the trunk with a fabric, paper or plastic commercial tree wrap, which is sold at nurseries. Remove the wrap in spring after the last frost so it won't restrict growth, keep the bark moist or become a haven for pests.
Hungry rodents injure the bark on young trees by feeding on it during winter food shortages.
Though trees with thickened or corky bark usually aren't vulnerable, those with thinner bark are sometimes killed. Plastic tree guards also help safeguard against rabbit damage. Be sure to remove the protection next spring. Privacy policy .