A tree is considered to be wounded when its bark is broken so
that either its inner bark or wood is exposed to the air. Tree wounds are caused by
various agents, including birds, animals, insects, fire, mechanical equipment, lightning,
or man and his activities. Tree wounds are classified into three types, depending on their
locations: branch wounds, trunk wounds, and root wounds.
A good tree-care program includes looking for hints
of trouble. There are a number of signs and symptoms that indicate the development of
decay in a tree. All too often they go unrecognized until it is too late. However, early
recognition of these signs and symptoms, followed by proper treatment, can do much to
proven or minimize the damage caused by decay and the subsequent waste of so many good
trees and so much valuable wood. Before deciding on a plan of action, it is wise to
consider these basic points about trees.
Branch Wounds
All trees lose some branches during their lifetime and the wounds from
these branch stubs usually heal. But when they heal too slowly or not at all, the tree
could be in for serious trouble.
Poorly healed branch stubs are major entry points for microorganisms that can cause
decay. Tree wounds are classified into three types, depending on their location: branch
wounds, trunk wounds, and root wounds.
  
These illustrations show what happens when a single branch stub does not heal.
During the lifetime of a tree, the improper healing of branch stubs may occur many times
over, multiplying this effect. Look for poorly healed branch stubs as reliable early signs
of trouble. (See illustrations 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, and 12 that show the
progression and compartmentalization of a branch wound over 40 years)
 
Trunk Wounds
There are many types of wounds on trunks, and most will heal.
These drawings show what happens when a trunk wound becomes infected. This situation might
be repeated many times during the life of an individual tree.
Poorly healed trunk wounds are also early signs of trouble. (See illustrations 13,
14, 15, 16, 17, 18, and 19 that show the progression and compartmentalization of a trunk
wound over 40 years)
  
 
Root Wounds
 Roots are often wounded during the construction of buildings and roadways,
patios, and swimming pools, unless measures are taken to prevent root injury. Following
construction, soil is sometimes piled on top of these injured roots, so the wounds do not
show.
Injured roots weaken the foundation of the tree and with time and the
advancing decay process, could cause such a tree to eventually blow over in a storm.
Be on the alert for root injuries up to 10 years after any kind of construction work in
the area. Dead and dying branches on one side of the tree's crown are often early signs of
root injury on that side.
 If you suspect root injury, watch the tree's vigor closely and do everything
possible to increase its vigor. Such measures include watering, fertilizing, pruning, and
thinning out other, less valuable surrounding vegetation. If
additional branches begin to die, consult a professional and consider removal of the tree
before a costly disaster strikes. (See illustrations 20 and 21)
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