Black Locust Storm Damage: Natural Healing Process

A large trunk hole from limb loss on black locust will heal naturally. Winter won't kill the tree—locust wood is exceptionally decay-resistant.

Wound Management

• Trim loose bark/splinters flush to trunk
• No wound dressings—they trap moisture, delay healing
• Tree compartmentalizes decay internally
• Callus rolls inward from edges annually

Long-Term Outlook

• Hollowing may occur over decades—not a strength concern
• Black locust heartwood resists fungal decay exceptionally well
• Shade function unaffected during healing
• No treatment needed or beneficial

Reassure your father: this tree will outlast the wound. Locust's natural durability makes it one of the best species for storm recovery.