I noticed that deer removed a thin layer of bark on a 4 inch red maple that was planted in the fall of 2006. The tree is about 18 feet tall and they removed a 3 foot high section on one side with a small 3 inch section that seems to go deeper. What can I do right now in March, other than spraying with ropel, that can help the tree survive. Can I use tree wrap or should I tar the deep wound.

Greetings Ron,

Deer "rubs" are quite common in Illinois, though they can be very annoying to landowners - especially on planted ornamental trees and tree plantations.

Unfortunately, there is no magical cure to make the "rub" go away. Adding tree paints (tar) or other products (wraps) to the affected area only complicates the issue. It is important to remind tree owners that trees do not heal, rather trees compartmentalize wounds through natural processes to minimize damage from mechanical injury and biological injury.

For your situation, might I suggest a small chicken-wire type fence around the tree's trunk to protect it from future deer rubs. Do not place the chicken-wire on the tree, rather stake it around the perimeter of the main stem. Make sure the fence is tall enough to prevent future deer rubbing incidents.

Best of luck!