Sunscald and bark splitting: a growing problem |
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Time for more research and practical input
Sunscald and bark splitting are common problems in trees and are on the rise. From a recent online survey we conducted as a trade magazine (which received a surprisingly high response), it became clear that many green professionals recognize these issues. To help interpret the results, we asked several tree experts to share their views. One of them is Ronald Loch from Rotterdam. He puts the problem sharply: 'Trees don't die immediately from bark splitting or sunscald, but it is an entry point for fungi.'
Familiar but underestimated
Nearly all respondents (over 85%) are familiar with sunscald and bark splitting in trees; it is therefore a well-known phenomenon in the field, most commonly observed in urban areas. A significant portion of respondents (39%) believe the problem is underestimated in the tree care sector by companies, municipalities, and nurseries, and that policymakers do not sufficiently realize how complex these issues are.
Intense solar radiation
According to the respondents, cases of sunscald and bark splitting occur in all seasons: winter (9%), summer (53%), autumn (26%), and spring (14%). This happens when trees are exposed to intense sunlight that damages the bark—especially in winter after cold nights, resulting in frost cracks. Trees are particularly exposed to sunlight when they are solitary in cities, after neighboring trees have been removed, or when they are not adequately protected.
Most susceptible trees
Maples (24%), mature beeches (33%), and lindens (22%) are reported by the surveyed tree managers as the most vulnerable species, but other species are also mentioned (20%), including chestnut, poplar, Cercis, and even plane, hornbeam, and Prunus. This suggests that both native and non-native species can be sensitive, especially when planted in unfavorable locations. Young trees with thin bark are particularly vulnerable when placed in full sun during prolonged heatwaves, sometimes with additional damage caused by reflected sunlight increasing the stem temperature.
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