Question
My tree was damaged in a recent storm and a branch split off, but inside was some white spleckly goo in the middle where 2 other low branch had been cut off. The tree trimmer says there is nothing I can do because it will rot due to old cut branches. I would like to safe the tree is has been so lovely with it's pink blooms in spring and the shade it gives. Do you have any suggestions??

Answer
Victoria:

There indeed might be some level of decay within.  The wood usually gets soft/mushy.  Unfortunately, if that is the case, there is not a magic bullet.  For these types of problems, only prevention is best- that is  preventing wounds. Just be sure to avoid water stress and be sure it is fertilized appropriately, based on a soil test that you can get done through your local county Extension office. The rot is often slow, but progressive.

Steve