In a message dated 3/11/2003 11:33:13 PM Eastern Standard Time,
writes:

Hi, all. My ground-planted trident maple recently got a rather severe chop.
I chose not to use any wound sealer, as per the prevailing thoughts of
those
on the list. Now, however, mold has set in over the surface of the exposed
wood of the cut. How should this be handled, and what are the
ramifications
for the health of the tree which seems to be doing quite well, exploding
with new growth)?

Mold and Mildew are a response to moisture. What angle is the cut, if it
is square to the trunk (that is, straight across) you might need to recut at
more of an angle, 45 degrees is good. This way water will not sit on the
cut. If the cut is at and angle but new growth is shading it you might
consider pruning or replanting at a different angle to allow more sun to the
cut. The mold/mildew will probably not directly affect the tree as it is
living on dead wood, but it might retain enough moisture over the cut to
create a deeper hollow and more chance for rot.
If none of the above is the case or does not seem practical you could
make a weak bleach solution, maybe a cup to a gallon of water and wipe the
mold/mildew off with that every time you see it.
Billy on the Florida Space Coast

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