AboutJim Hyland Expertise Registered Forester in the Southern US with 30 years experiance in managing pines. Expert in pine forest health from management to control of pests to ID of species.
I currently have a beautiful pine tree growing in my front yard about 15 feet from my house in Austin, TX. It is well over 60 ft. tall, I have no idea exactly how tall it is. My problem is a woodpecker has done substantial damage to the side of the tree facing my home. Sap is oozing in large mound down the site of damage. I am concerned I may need to have the tree removed to prevent possible damage from the tree weakening and falling. Is there anything I can do to assure the strength of the tree and the safety of my home?
Answer The woodpecker did not damage the strength of the pine it did however cause the sap flow and the amount you describe may draw bark beetle to the tree. i would recommend that the area that is damaged be sprayed with either an insecticide called Merit or Onyx Both will prevent bark beetle attack and the prevention should last 4 -6 months. This should give the sap time to dry and not be attractive to the beetles.
The city of Austin also has an Urban Forester he might be able to come and take a look at the tree or he may have a contact with the Texas Forest Service Urban Forester who could help. Here is the Austin Urban Foresters name and contact information.
