Maple tree losing bark - Ask Extension
A maple tree on the south side of my home is losing its bark. It's been there since I bought the house in 1991, and this has never happened before. I ...
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Maple tree losing bark #870398
Asked May 28, 2024, 11:36 AM EDT
A maple tree on the south side of my home is losing its bark. It's been there since I bought the house in 1991, and this has never happened before. I first notice it on one section of the trunk a few months ago, and now it looks like other sections are also losing bark.
What is the problem? Is the tree able to survive? If so, what needs to be done?
Montgomery County Maryland
Expert Response
The loss of bark on a tree is concerning as it is the 'highway,' so to speak, where water and nutrients are taken into the tree to feed itself and allow it to grow.
We can see at least two large limbs in the center of the second photo that look entirely dead. We'd expect those limbs to have no live branches with leaves? Dead limbs will eventually naturally shed their bark.
In any case, the tree may be in serious decline, but it is hard to say without seeing the leafy canopy.
This page will help you to decide if it may be time to remove the tree:
https://extension.umd.edu/resource/how-do-you-decide-when-remove-tree/
Given the large size and closeness to your home/vehicles, if it is unhealthy you'd want to have it assessed for structural integrity to make sure it isn't a fall risk in storms/wind, or remove it.
Christine
We can see at least two large limbs in the center of the second photo that look entirely dead. We'd expect those limbs to have no live branches with leaves? Dead limbs will eventually naturally shed their bark.
In any case, the tree may be in serious decline, but it is hard to say without seeing the leafy canopy.
This page will help you to decide if it may be time to remove the tree:
https://extension.umd.edu/resource/how-do-you-decide-when-remove-tree/
Given the large size and closeness to your home/vehicles, if it is unhealthy you'd want to have it assessed for structural integrity to make sure it isn't a fall risk in storms/wind, or remove it.
Christine
