Knowledgebase
What is eating the bark off my Japanese Maple? #870062
Asked May 25, 2024, 1:31 PM EDT
On 5/3/24, I noticed bark removed from my Japanese Maple (the lower damage in the picture) and placed a ring around it to deter bunnies. The next day, I say this additional, and much more severe damage. I have since wrapped with protective paper wrapping. What could be doing this? I thought bunnies had enough to eat at this time of year. This tree has been in place about a year. Is there anything I can do to help it survive? It doesn't appear to be girdled but I'm afraid the damage is too much for it to survive.
Wayne County Michigan
Expert Response
Hi Jennifer, thanks for the question.
This looks like the work of squirrels that strip away the bark for a sweet treat in spring. There are other critters that can also strip bark. This can be fatal if enough of the circumference is stripped. Be sure it gets adequate water if. Unless there is loose bark, do not treat the wound. Protecting the trunk from further damage with wire mesh, aluminum flashing, chicken wire, repellants, etc.
Check out the following links:
What is stripping the bark off my tree branches? | Purdue Extension Forestry & Natural Resources
Bark Stripping Squirrels | Gardening in the Panhandle (ufl.edu)
Japanese Maple (lsuagcenter.com)
I hope this is helpful.
Hi again,
Loose bark should be removed so not to provide a home for insects and pathogens. With a sharp knife, remove the loose bark by tracing around the loose bark so only attached bark remains.
