Why Is My Citrus Tree Bark Splitting?
When the bark on a citrus tree begins splitting, cracking, or peeling away from the trunk, many homeowners fear their tree is dying. Sometimes the problem is minor, but in other cases it can indicate disease, sun damage, improper watering, or serious stress.
Citrus trees in Mesa, Arizona frequently develop bark problems from intense summer heat, reflected sunlight, overwatering, underwatering, and declining health. The good news is that many bark problems can be diagnosed and corrected before the tree suffers permanent damage.
Signs that something may be wrong include:
- Cracked bark on the trunk
- Bark peeling away from branches
- Splits running vertically along the trunk
- Sticky sap leaking from damaged areas
- Dead branches above damaged bark
- Yellow leaves and thinning canopy
Early diagnosis is important because bark damage often allows insects and diseases to enter the tree. A professional inspection can usually determine the underlying cause and recommend the proper treatment.
In this video, Warner explains the most common reasons citrus tree bark begins splitting and what homeowners should do before permanent damage occurs.
Common Causes of Bark Splitting
Bark damage may be caused by:
- Extreme summer heat
- Sunburn on the trunk
- Improper pruning
- Overwatering
- Root problems
- Disease and infection
- Mechanical injury
- Long-term drought stress
A citrus tree with bark damage should be evaluated before the problem spreads into larger branches or reaches the root system.
Professional Citrus Tree Evaluation
Warner's Tree Surgery has been helping homeowners diagnose sick trees for decades. Every citrus tree is different, and bark damage can have several causes occurring at the same time.
If your citrus tree bark is splitting, peeling, or cracking, call before the damage becomes more severe.
Warner's Tree Surgery
Mesa, Arizona
480-969-8808