Understanding Tree Bark Cracks: When to Call an Arborist

Understanding Tree Bark Cracks: When to Call an Arborist

In Southeast Texas, professional tree-care and maintenance includes monitoring trees for signs of stress or damage, including bark cracking. Houston area homeowners may notice various types of splits or cracks in their trees’ bark, which can indicate several underlying conditions. While arborists should evaluate these issues, understanding potential causes of bark cracking can help property owners better communicate their concerns when seeking professional tree-care services.

Below are some of the possible reasons tree bark may crack. While this isn’t an exhaustive list, it covers several potential causes and can help you know what to look for when discussing concerns with your arborist.

Potential Causes of Bark Cracking

Weather-Related Splits

Temperature fluctuations can cause bark damage through several mechanisms. During winter months, rapid temperature changes, particularly when freezing temperatures are followed by sun exposure on the bark, can lead to frost cracks. These cracks develop when the outer bark layer contracts and expands at different rates than the inner wood. When trees experience extended periods of freezing temperatures, internal water movement and tissue responses can create additional stress on the bark. This stress may lead to visible damage, particularly on the south or southwest sides of trees where sun exposure can create the greatest temperature fluctuations.

Mechanical Damage

Physical injury to trees can result in bark cracking. This includes:

• Damage from lawn maintenance equipment
• Construction equipment impacts
• Vehicle collisions

These injuries can disrupt water and nutrient movement within the tree and create entry points for decay.

To protect trees from mechanical damage, maintain a safe distance when operating equipment near trees, and ensure construction activities include proper tree protection measures.

Growth-Related Changes

Trees can develop vertical bark splits when the living inner bark expands rapidly. This natural process occurs as part of the tree’s growth cycle, though environmental conditions can influence how and when such splitting occurs.

Fungal Issues

Certain fungi can affect tree bark integrity. Indicators of potential fungal involvement include:

• Discoloration of bark tissue
• Visible fungal growth
• Softening of wood beneath bark
• Unusual bark texture or appearance
• Fermented sap odor from cracks or splits

What to Look For

When examining tree bark cracks, note these details to share with your arborist:

• The direction of the crack (vertical or horizontal)
• The length and width of the split
• Location on the tree
• Whether multiple cracks are present
• If discoloration exists around the crack
• Whether the crack appears fresh or weathered
• Any visible fungal growth
• Changes in crack characteristics over time

When to Contact an Arborist

While noting characteristics and potential causes of bark cracks is helpful, determining their underlying cause requires professional expertise. Contact an experienced arborist when:

• New cracks appear suddenly
• Existing cracks widen or extend
• Multiple cracks develop
• Bark begins separating from the tree
• Cracks are accompanied by other signs of stress
• Any fungal growth is visible near cracks

Professional tree care specialists can properly evaluate the situation and recommend appropriate treatment options to support your tree’s health and structural integrity.

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ArborTrue is a science-based tree-service company in the greater Houston area. We also serve Austin and other parts of Central Texas. We provide a range of services including tree trimming, tree pruning, tree removal, tree planting, arborist consultations, and more. Call us today at 832-980-8733 (Houston) or at 512-546-3833 (Austin) or reach out to us online to schedule an appointment.