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Fruit & Orchards

Bark all eaten off of trees

17 years ago

We have two apple trees that are 5 yrs. old now. Last year was the first year we had apples and we were thrilled. Now, it seems over the winter rodents have eaten all of the bark off of both of them up about 2 feet, but there are buds on the branches.

Are they going to make it?

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Comments (3)

chills71
17 years ago
if the bark is removed all the way around (360 degrees) then the answer is not likely.

Without a way for fluids (sap and water) to move up and down the plant the tops will not survive.

If you are determined to try and save them, you will either need to bridge graft from top to bottom where the bark is removed (or seek professional help to do so)

~Chills
jellyman
17 years ago
Roberta:

If the rodents chewed through the living cambium layer of the tree, just below the bark, there is little chance the trees will make it even though they may have buds. If enough of the cambium is still intact to transport nutrients up and down the trees, they may still make it and will heal up after a few years.

You will know soon enough if the buds you see begin to swell and show some blooms and leaves. I guess I don't have to add that if the trees make it they need some screenwire or other protection for next winter.

You may have a rodent problem there (rabbits?), but buck deer can also cause similar bark stripping as they rub to expose their new antlers. Rodents usually limit their operations to below the snow line.

Don Yellman, Great Falls, VA
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Posey Planter
17 years ago
Hi Roberta!

A few years ago, I had some apple trees completely girdled at ground level by mice under snow cover. I tried inarch grafting on three trees in an effort to save them. I mangled the first one and it did not make it. The other two are fine. They did however loose at least a year of normal development.

Even if your trees are completely girdled, they may leaf out and look OK for a while because the roots can still get water to the top of the trees via the xylem. Although the roots cannot get nourishment from the leaves via the phloem, established roots should have some reserves... so you still have a little time to learn about grafting and attempt to mend the trees this spring. In my area, May would be the optimal time for bridge grafts.

HereÂs one article you may find helpful.
NC Co-Op Ext: Grafting and Budding Nursery Crop Plants

Google Search:bridge+graft+apple

Regards,
PoseyPlanter

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