Cockatoo Bark Damage on Japanese Maple: Wound Care

Assessment

1.5 cm × 30 cm bark strip on lower trunk, not girdled, not to wood (cambium likely intact) = survivable.

Care

• Trim ragged edges cleanly (done).
• No wound paint, tape, or sealant—traps moisture, promotes decay.
• Monitor for borer dust (fine sawdust) at wound.
• If borers seen, spray wound with imidacloprid (Merit) or permethrin.

Outlook

Wound will callus over 1–2 seasons. Shaded side helps (less sun stress). Bird netting or trunk guard prevents recurrence.