Damaged Tree - Ask Extension
A crabapple tree was extensively damaged in a snowstorm in early May. A limb was torn off the central trunk of the tree. I have attached a photo. In m...
Knowledgebase
Damaged Tree #931721
Asked May 14, 2026, 3:42 PM EDT
A crabapple tree was extensively damaged in a snowstorm in early May. A limb was torn off the central trunk of the tree. I have attached a photo. In my estimation the damage occurs on 40% of the central trunk. My question is this: What can I do to help ensure the survivability of the tree? Is there a coating or other product that I could put on the damaged area to help prevent disease? Thank you for your time and attention.
Boulder County Colorado
Expert Response
Hi Rolin,
Sorry to hear your tree was damaged in the recent storm. I have attached a damaged tree resource guide for you. We also have a tree team here at Boulder County Extension. They will make site visits. The visit is $50. You can assess the tree, safety is the first concern. If it is near power lines or has other limbs ready to fall call an arborist. Trees are resilient and many can recover from storm damage. You can try a 'wait and see' option. Other than the damage, is the tree healthy? You can sand the rough edges of the break to reduce places for disease to enter. Don't over prune, the tree will need all its leaves to survive the next year. Please reach out again if you have remaining questions. Best of luck to you and your tree. Storm Damage Guide
Kellie
Boulder County Extension, CSU
Sorry to hear your tree was damaged in the recent storm. I have attached a damaged tree resource guide for you. We also have a tree team here at Boulder County Extension. They will make site visits. The visit is $50. You can assess the tree, safety is the first concern. If it is near power lines or has other limbs ready to fall call an arborist. Trees are resilient and many can recover from storm damage. You can try a 'wait and see' option. Other than the damage, is the tree healthy? You can sand the rough edges of the break to reduce places for disease to enter. Don't over prune, the tree will need all its leaves to survive the next year. Please reach out again if you have remaining questions. Best of luck to you and your tree. Storm Damage Guide
Kellie
Boulder County Extension, CSU
