Does Tree Bark Grow Back After Being Damaged in Brookhaven, GA?

Noticing that the bark on a beloved tree has begun peeling in large patches may have you worried for the tree’s health and longevity. Does tree bark grow back naturally, and is missing bark a threat to the tree’s health? The answer often depends on the severity of the damage. 

When in doubt, schedule professional tree care services in Brookhaven, GA, to learn more about the severity of the bark damage and what you should do next. 

Understanding the Role of Tree Bark

Tree bark plays a protective role, shielding the inner wood from environmental hazards, pests, and damage. Bark also works in the opposite direction by locking moisture and nutrients inside the tree’s inner phloem layer. 

As a result, bark isn’t an expendable tree component; it plays a necessary role in a tree’s survival. So, understanding whether bark will grow back after damage is important to knowing whether you need to take action to protect it. 

When Does Tree Bark Grow Back After Being Damaged?

Does tree bark ever grow back on its own? Usually not. While human skin regenerates as a wound heals, trees follow different wound-healing processes after sustaining damage. 

Instead of “healing” the wound, trees isolate and seal the damaged area off from the rest of the bark through a process known as compartmentalization. Isolating it allows the tree to protect the wound from pests and rot. Then, the tree grows callus tissue around the edges of the wound, slowly sealing the edges from the outside in. 

While you will not see the damaged area become patched over with new bark, the tree will protect the wound from worsening in many cases. 

When To Be Concerned About Damaged Bark 

While trees have natural wound-healing processes to rely on, these are not always effective when the damage to its bark is significant or severe. You might need to enlist tree professionals if any of the following are true:

• The wound damage is deep enough to reach the cambium layer of the tree
• The damage wraps around more than 50% of the trunk
• You notice fungal growth or oozing sap, which could indicate infections or pest activity 

Tree bark can become damaged for a range of reasons, from shifting temperatures to pest activity. A tree professional will assess the cause of the damage and determine whether the tree is at risk of dying from severe damage. They might use wrapping or bridge grafting to aid the tree’s recovery process. 

Schedule a Free Quote From Don’s Tree Service 

Does tree bark grow back? No, bark itself generally does not grow back over damaged areas; instead, trees seal wounds with callus tissue. If your tree damage is severe, you may need professional help saving damaged tree bark and helping the tree recover. 

Don’s Tree Service provides professional tree care and maintenance throughout the Brookhaven, GA, region. Contact us today at 770-413-TREE (8733) to request a free quote for service.