Have you seen large, knob-like tree growths on the trunks and branches of your trees? They are most likely burls. But what is a burl, and is it a danger to your tree?
As concerning as a burl might look, it isn’t harmful. In fact, burl wood is quite valuable because of its beautiful, irregular patterns. So, before you rush to get professional tree services in Nashville, TN, and have the burl removed, it’s best to learn a bit about it.
What Are Tree Burls?
Burls are growth deformities you’ll often find on your tree’s trunk, branches, or roots. They are a collection of tree cells called callus tissue, which have merged to form a knobby structure characterized by intricate wood grain patterns and an irregular shape.
Want to know if what you’re seeing on your tree is indeed a burl? Look for:
- Swelling bark on your tree’s trunk or branch
- Irregular patterns
- Cracking, woody bark around the branches or trunk
How Do Burls Form?
While experts are still working to understand how burls come to be, they are most likely the result of tree stress. This stress is usually a response to disease, an insect infestation, or physical damage.
A burl will start developing when your tree’s normal growth is impacted. As the burl grows, it incorporates the dormant buds around it, folding, rolling, or compressing them into its expanding form.
Moreover, the burl can expand quickly because these cells often grow faster.
Are Tree Burls Harmful? Should I Remove Them?
The lumpy, irregular growth on your tree can be quite concerning. Besides asking, “What is a tree burl?” many tree owners also often wonder whether it’s harmful. The short answer is no. Actually, the burl is anything but destructive.
Burls are simply wound response tissues. All you’ll find when you open one is wood with unique grain patterns. Some burls might even contain interior bark ridges and mineral deposits from flooded air or soil pockets.
It is these ridges and patterns that make tree burls sought after. Most woodworkers use them for instrument making, furniture slabs, inserts, and veneer panels.
However, as valuable as they are, you shouldn’t attempt to remove them, especially if your tree is otherwise healthy.
Your tree uses burls to seal off its injured areas. So, by cutting them off, you’ll only be creating a wound your tree can’t seal, leaving it vulnerable to diseases and pest infestations.
Worried About Your Tree? Turn to Nashville’s Trusted Tree Service
What is a tree burl? Basically, you can think of your tree’s burls as harmless lumps. They might be unsightly, but they pose no harm to your tree and perform a protective function.
If, however, you are a bit concerned about your tree for this or any other reason, we’re always available to come and assess it. You can trust us to dedicate our specialized expertise to helping a sick tree.
Call Spruce Up Tree Care today at (901) 833-8242.
