I have a tree where the leaves on one brach are brown but the branch is strong and sturdy. Upon looking closer it appears that there is a gash right at the trunk where the branch connects, however the branch is still firmly connected to the trunk. Sap has already started to fill the opening but I am wondering if I should leave it or go on and cut it. If I leave it is there anything I can do to seal the opening and help it recover faster. Also how long will it take to recover. It is a fairly new tree and the branch is at the bottom so if I remove it, it will leave an opening.