Ice Storm Damage on 200-Year-Old Maple: Wound Care and Monitoring

A massive 200-year-old maple lost a major limb in the December 2008 ice storm, leaving a large open wound with no bark. Owner seeks advice to save this specimen tree.

Wound Management

• Remove loose bark and splintered wood cleanly
• NO wound dressing—slows natural compartmentalization
• Monitor for borers: Sawdust, holes = spray wound with Merit (imidacloprid)

Long-Term Outlook

The wound is not life-threatening. Over decades, the tree will compartmentalize and close the wound. Worst case: decay fungi enter, slowly hollowing the trunk over many decades. Even hollow trees remain structurally sound and healthy if the living cylinder (cambium) is intact.

Cosmetic Note

The tree will look lopsided. This is unavoidable. Focus on health, not symmetry.

Proactive Care

• Annual fertilization (10-10-10 at 1 lb/inch diameter)
• Lightning protection system (for high-value specimens)
• Periodic ISA-certified arborist inspections
• Root zone protection (no compaction, construction, grade changes)