Question
My neighbour is building a fence and has shown me that on their side of the tree there is a hole about 10 inches in diameter in the base of the, at ground level.  I read your answer on "holes in a tree" where you said that concrete could be abrasive and cause trouble when the tree moves.  This is a large tree and would not be moving at the base - so would concrete be acceptable in the case?

There is also a large piece of bark off the bottom of the tree. Am I correct in thinking nothing should be done about this?

Thank you for a speedy answer.

-Myrna

Answer
I would do nothing. The cement will cause problems as the tree grows. Walnut is fairly sound wood and does not decay fast. I do not think you will see and problem from the tree decaying and hollowing form the fungi for a very very long time. If the foliage is healthy looking I would do nothing to the hole.