Q.Tree Sap Damage
Last fall our weeping cherry tree started to develop several cracks in the bark and began to leak sap. This year the tree did flower but not nearly as much as usual and it doesn’t seem to be leafing out as it should. I hate to lose this tree (don’t know the exact age but at least 13 years old). Does this sound like we are going to lose this tree? Is there anything we can do to save it?
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
Fruit trees are very susceptible to frost cracks or bark splitting due to the fact that they have thin bark. These are caused by drastic temperature fluctuations, especially in the winter or by warm sun on the tree in the winter time. This then causes sap oozing. It can be reduced by providing some extra protection to the tree, especially the lower part of the tree. Normally, a paper wrap is used to give the trunk some extra winter protection.
