What is it?
Frost crack is very common in winter, especially when temperature fluctuate dramatically during day and night. When the sun warms the bark, causing it to expand. As temperatures drop rapidly at night, the bark contracts faster that the underlying wood. This difference creates cracks in the bark and wood, known as frost cracks.
Symptom
- Cracks up to several feet long along the trunk and can be found on any side of the trunk.
- Cracks can close in summer and reopen in winter.
- Maple, oak, linden, ash trees and fruit trees are more prone to frost crack because of the wood properties.
Damages
- It creates an open wound for potential pests and diseases attack.
- Frost crack is rarely fatal to the tree, but it might post potential risk of wood decay or tree failure.
What to do?
- Keep your tree healthy, well hydrated and mulched.
- Regular monitor your tree and ask for professional opinion if needed.