Bark Splitting on Trees Bark Splitting on Trees Bark splitting can occur in response to various environmental factors at different times of the year.
Splits can occur on the trunk of the tree as well as on branches.
Trees which are most susceptible to this type of injury are those which are thin-barked, such as certain fruit trees. Newly planted trees or young trees are more prone to bark-splitting. Bark splits are not likely to be fatal to trees, although they will, in some cases, allow entry of disease organisms which can cause decay. Through proper treatment to encourage the natural callusing process, a tree should be able to close most splits. There is no single reason for bark splitting on trees.