Does tree wound dressing work?

Yes, tree wound dressing works — with an important qualification. A 1983 ISA study found that wounds treated with Treekote wound dressing showed higher closure rates and lower incidence of decay than untreated wounds.

The primary job of tree wound dressing is physical: the asphalt emulsion base creates a waterproof barrier over fresh pruning cuts that blocks moisture loss, fungal entry, and sap-feeding beetles. This matters most on oaks, where sap-feeding beetles spread oak wilt through fresh cuts, and on any wound over ½ inch where beetle entry is a real risk. Treekote wound dressing makes no decay-prevention claim — the barrier function is what's documented and what holds up.

• Treekote wound dressing efficacy documented in a 1983 ISA study showing higher wound closure and lower decay than untreated controls.
• Treekote wound dressing should be applied within 3 days of any cut greater than ½ inch in diameter.
• On oak trees, Treekote wound dressing should be applied the same day as the cut to reduce oak wilt risk during beetle flight season.
• Treekote wound dressing base material is asphalt emulsion — flexible, waterproof, and rated to hold in hot, cold, wet, and dry conditions.
• Treekote wound dressing is available in aerosol (8 oz, 12 oz), brush-top container (16 oz), tub (16 oz), and gallon bucket formats.