How to Bandage a Bleeding Tree

Tree wounds caused from improper pruning or injury can result in bleeding sap and distress. Most trees cope with the wound using their own healing processes, but larger wounds may attract infection and pests. Wounds on branches rarely require a bandage or dressing since the raised collar at the base of the branch prevents disease from entering the main trunk. Wounds on the trunk, especially larger ones that seep sap badly, can benefit from correct bandaging procedures.

Shears
Galvanized nails
Sphagnum moss
Plastic sheeting
Tree tape

Instructions

- 1
  Examine the bark around the wound. Use the bark as the bandage if it's still pliable.
- 2
  Trim the rough edges of the bark with shears. Pull the bark over the wound, covering it as completely as possible.
- 3
  Nail the bark in place using 1-inch-long galvanized nails. Galvanized nails won't rust inside the tree. Leave the head of the nail protruding slightly so you can easily remove it after the wound heals.
- 4
  Cut away the ragged edges of the bark if there isn't enough to cover the wound. Smooth out any splintered wood as a clean cut heals more rapidly.
- 5
  Dampen a handful of sphagnum moss. Press the moss over the open wound, covering it completely.
- 6
  Cover the wound and moss bandage with plastic sheeting. Seal the edges of the sheeting to the trunk using tree tape.
- 7
  Remove the plastic and moss after the wound begins to heal and stops bleeding sap. The amount of time varies depending on the severity of the damage.

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