Imagine a garden full of healthy fruit trees that bring not only beauty, but also juicy fruits. In order to achieve this result, it is necessary to give the trees the right winter care. One key step that we often forget is removing the old bark. This seemingly insignificant part of the tree hides many secrets, including fungal spores and pests that can threaten its health.
Fruit trees are a part of almost all gardens. They bring us not only beauty, but also tasty fruits. However, in order to remain healthy and fertile, they require our care. One of the often neglected steps in the care of fruit trees is the removal of the bark.
This old and peeling part of the bark can be not only a source of aesthetic problem, but also a danger to the health of the tree. Fungal spores, pests or other pathogens can be hidden in the pine tree, which can weaken the tree. The removal of the bark is therefore a key step that helps trees better cope with the challenges of the surrounding environment.
“When we have trees full of bark and lichens, we take a working afternoon and start mechanical removal. We need a wire brush and a tarp. We stretch it under the tree and scrape the rough bark with lichens, mosses, and algae from the tree.
If the brush does not seem suitable to us, we can find various bark scrapers on the Internet or in hobby and garden stores. It goes better with those after practice. Everything we rub off, we pour from the tarpaulin into the fire,” advises gardener Ivan Dvořák.
On video from Watch SkillCult on removing bark from apple trees on YouTube:
Source: Youtube
Risks associated with unremoved bork
The old bark can be considered a natural part of the tree, which gradually peels off, giving way to new bark. Unfortunately, this process also brings risks. Peeled bark creates pockets on the surface of the tree where dirt, fungi and pests easily settle. These organisms find a safe haven here, where they overwinter, multiply and attack healthy parts of the tree in the spring. Therefore, it is important to remove the old bark in time and thus prevent the spread of diseases or pests.
Fungal spores and pests in an old pine tree
One of the biggest risks associated with unremoved borage is the presence of fungal spores. Fungi, such as the scab-causing Venturia inaequalis, can quickly attack a tree’s branches and fruit. Spores are easily spread from the bark by wind or rain, and the infection of the tree can thus affect a larger area. However, Borka is not only a shelter for mushrooms.
Various pests, including the apple borer, settle in it and find ideal conditions for survival. These pests subsequently penetrate the younger parts of the tree, where they damage new shoots, buds and even fruits. In addition, residues of chemical substances accumulate on the surface of the bark, for example from sprays left on the tree after treatment. These substances react with the surrounding environment and weaken the tree’s defenses.
When and how to remove the bork
It is advisable to remove the bark during or at the end of winter, when the trees are still asleep, but the temperatures are no longer extremely low. This time is ideal because the tree is not active during the winter period and mechanical interventions do not stress it so much.
A soft brush or garden scraper should be used to remove bark. Rough tools that could damage the healthy bark under the bark are not suitable. When working, it is important to start from the bottom of the trunk and work upwards. Remember that the bark must be removed gently and gradually so as not to disturb the healthy layers of the bark.
Removal of bark beetles and tree protection
When removing bark, it is good to pay attention to the presence of pests or larvae. When you encounter them, it is necessary to dispose of them immediately so that they cannot multiply further. All removed bark must be carefully removed outside the garden.
Unremoved bark could remain a source of infection or a home for other pests. After removing the bark, it is recommended to paint the tree trunk with white paint or a lime mixture to protect it from frost cracks. These arise during sudden changes in temperature and can significantly weaken the tree.
Next steps in the care of fruit trees
Another important care for fruit trees is proper branch pruning. This step allows for better air circulation between the branches, which helps reduce the risk of disease spreading. After winter maintenance, it is also advisable to supply the trees with the necessary nutrients. High-quality fertilizer and protective mulch around the trunk help trees to grow better and subsequently bear fruit.
Old bork cannot be underestimated because it poses a serious risk to the health of fruit trees. Only its timely removal and thorough winter care bring health, vitality and the ability to resist adverse effects to the trees.
Source: www.youtube.com, www.zahradkari.cz, www.rozhlas.cz
