Water Oak – Protecting Damage

Q: A vehicle struck a water oak tree in our yard yesterday. There are several deep cuts in the bark Is there anything we should do to the tree to make sure it survives?

A: Use a razor knife to remove any loose bark or splinters near the wound. Spray the exposed wood with water-based insecticide to deter borers for a few months. If things go according to plan, the tree will slowly grow callous tissue over the damage.