Arguments go both ways about using a sealer (like Morrison's Tree Seal) or letting the tree "heal" itself. Trees don't really "heal" a wound; they just produce new growth separating the "infection-cut" from the rest of the tree, essentially "sealing out" the bad stuff. Your problem now is that it is cold and the trees are dormant so there is not much tree growth. Some say that using a sealant just traps moisture next to the would which encourages fungus and bacteria etc. So... after all that.... the way I see it is : Trees evolved over a long period when we were not around to fret over them. Maybe they figured out, without us, how to deal with these situations. I would clear some of the mulch away from the bottom to let it air out and otherwise I would leave it alone and hope. Mike

1 Daff opened today; a beautiful orangey-red little flower close to ground [not crocus, but don't know what since this is our first spring in the house and except for the bulbs I planted in Fall, don't know what's planted]. But best sign yet...calving started 2 days ago in the field next to our house...5 so far and lots more coming I'd imagine!1

That's a cool bird. Thanks for sharing. Dax

Those are beautiful, joan. Wonderful color on the grass. Ron