how to repair damaged bark on tree trunk

Question

Metal edging was installed when maple tree was young. The tree has grown into the edging. Should I remove the edging? How should I repair the damaged bark?

Answer 1

I would not attempt to remove the edging from the tree at this time. I would remove any of the edging that has not yet become embedded in the tree, but leave what is embedded in the tree alone. You will do more damage than good by removing it from the tree's trunk tissue. Eventually, the tree will simply completely surround it and you will only see a bit of a disfiguration.