Will this tree survive?

[Jason Hunt]

I planted this sugar maple last year and it seems healthy enough. It has a split that developed at some point last year near the base of the tree. I’ve kept it sealed with a wax I picked up at the garden supply store, in order to keep insects out. But I’m wondering if I’m just wasting my time. I don’t expect the split to close up completely and I imagine it will eventually effect the health of the tree. I did my best to keep the tree healthy so far but I don’t want to waste my time if it’ll just die in a few years. It’s early enough that I can plant another.

I’m hoping someone can offer me some advice as to what I need to do to keep it alive, or if I should cut my losses.

Thanks.

 

[Tjohn]

That looks pretty nasty, but sometimes they do heal up. If the split moves around the tree any further, I would say replace it, because girdling will kill the tree.

 

[Silentrunning]

That tree could very easily live but will most likely be lopsided down the road. The branches over the split won’t get much nutrition and will likely be stunted. See if you can find a bonsai person in your area. They might even buy you a new little tree if you let them take that one.

 

[DirtMechanic]

It is a fairly fast growing tree. I would replace it.