9 Reasons Why Your Tree Trunk Has Cracks

According to tree removal Sydney experts, the trunk is the thickest and strongest part of the shrub. But even the mightiest trees can develop cracks in their trunks. There are several reasons why this might happen, from age and weathering to damage from animals or insects.

A crack in the trunk is not always a cause for alarm. Many trees have cracks and fissures in their trunks that are perfectly normal and pose no threat to the tree's health. However, there are some instances when a crack in a tree trunk can be dangerous and warrant immediate attention.

If the crack in your tree trunk is large enough that you can fit your finger inside of it, this is cause for concern. A crack of this size indicates that the tree has suffered some sort of serious damage and is at risk of toppling over. If you see a crack like this, it's best to call in a professional arborist to assess the situation and determine whether or not the tree needs to be removed.

Another instance when a crack in a tree trunk is cause for alarm is if the crack is oozing sap or water. This could be a sign of disease or decay and should be investigated further by an arborist.

Cracks in your tree trunk can be cause for concern, as they can indicate many potential problems. If you notice any cracks in your tree trunk, it's important to take a closer look and determine the cause. 

The following list details the potential reasons why your tree may have cracks in its trunk.

Poor Soil Conditions

If the soil around your tree is poor or compacted, it can put stress on the tree and cause cracking. This is often seen in newly planted trees that haven't had a chance to develop strong roots yet.

Sudden Temperature Changes

Sudden temperature changes can also cause cracking, as the tree tries to expand and contract too quickly. This is more likely to happen in the spring and fall, when the weather is changing rapidly.

Pests or Disease

Pests or tree diseases can weaken the trunk and make it more susceptible to cracking. This is often seen in trees that have been infested with insects or affected by a fungal disease.

Storm Damage

Strong winds or heavy rains can damage the tree trunk and cause it to crack. This type of damage is usually most severe during storms with high winds, such as hurricanes or tornadoes.

Construction Damage

If construction work is being done near your tree, it can compact the soil and damage the roots, which can lead to cracks in the trunk. It's important to be aware of this if you live in an area where construction is taking place.

Vehicle Damage

If a vehicle hits your tree, it can cause the trunk to crack. This is often seen with trees that are hit by cars or trucks, particularly if the impact is severe.

Poor Pruning Techniques

If the tree is pruned incorrectly, it can lead to damage and cracks in the trunk. This is often seen when the tree is pruned too aggressively or not properly supported during the pruning process.

Weight of Fruit or Snow

The weight of fruit or snow can also cause cracking, as the tree's branches are unable to support the added weight. This is most likely to happen with fruit trees or evergreens that are loaded with snow.

Natural Aging

As trees age, they can become more brittle and susceptible to cracking. This is a normal part of the aging process and is not cause for alarm unless the cracks are severe.

If you notice any cracks in your tree trunk, it's important to take a closer look and determine the cause. In most cases, the cracks are not caused for alarm and will not pose a danger to the tree. However, if the cracks are severe or there are other signs of distress, you should contact a certified arborist for further assessment.