Discovering holes in one or more trees on your property may seem concerning. Depending on the size, number, and location of the holes, the damage could impact the plants’ health. What causes large holes in tree trunks?
Identifying tree trunk decay and addressing it often requires professional tree services in Auburn, AL. Review our guide below to learn why holes develop in trunks and how to prevent them.
Top Tree Trunk Hole Causes in Auburn, AL
Small holes in the trunk of a tree don’t automatically mean the tree is nearing its death. A few random cavities are typically less concerning than numerous holes. So, what causes large holes in tree trunks?
Wood Borers
Wood-boring insect infestations are one of the top reasons for large holes in trees. Beetles and borers dig into a tree to lay eggs in the wood. The holes and damage caused by young insects can prevent the tree from transporting food and water, increasing the risk of decay and rot.
Human Actions
Sometimes, the problem with trees is people. For instance, pruning branches incorrectly by cutting the limbs’ collars can cause the wound to deteriorate. The decomposition occurs inwardly, resulting in gaping cavities.
Natural Events
Inclement weather events can create substantial holes in tree trunks. The electrical current from lightning strikes can be powerful enough to blow a sizable cavity within a tree. The damage often resembles hollowed vertical cracks.
Wildlife
Insects aren’t the only critters that can damage tree trunks. Squirrels often build nests in tree cavities, but they usually don’t create the initial damage. They typically nest in existing holes and gnaw at weak areas that are already rotting.
Woodpeckers and sapsuckers can also damage tree bark. They do so to access sap and insects for food. Damage from these birds isn’t enough to kill trees, but it can be bad enough to weaken them.
How To Prevent Holes in Your Trees’ Trunks
Preventing holes in tree trunks isn’t always necessary. Most plants can recover from minor damage without issues. However, repeated damage can increase the risk of fungal infections, which can impact their health, growth, and longevity.
It’s best to proactively treat the trees on your property to eliminate wood-boring insects to prevent infestation. Although it’s illegal to exterminate non-game birds, you could use sticky repellents or predatory bird mimics to keep woodpeckers away. It’s also important to schedule tree maintenance to ensure proper trimming and pruning, as well as professional solutions for extensive trunk damage.
Get Help for Tree Damage and Trunk Cavities From Our Licensed Professionals
What causes large holes in tree trunks? The reasons for large holes in trees can range from squirrels and birds to lightning strikes. No matter the cause of your trees’ damage, you can rely on our team at Ceppo Cane Tree Service to restore the health and structural integrity of your plants.
Our licensed and insured tree care technicians offer top-tier tree services, including tree removal, trimming, debris removal, and emergency services. Contact us online or by calling (334) 467-0083 to request services from Ceppo Cane Tree Service.
