My flowering crab tree has developed hollow limbs.?

Question

It bloomed nicely this spring but is now losing it's leaves.The woodpeckers are really doing damage. The tree is about 50 yrs. old.Any ideas?

Answer 1

Woodpeckers are doing the damage to get at the bugs within your tree.  I would bet that you have some type of insect infestation in the tree that are causing the hollow limbs and the woodpeckers to further damage the tree.  You should check with your local garden center to verify - they may have a spray that will keep the insects at bay which should also limit the woodpeckers away.

Answer 2

While woodpeckers could be doing the damage, my guess is that there are other things at play.  The woodpeckers are attracted to your tree by grubs inside the tree that are hollowing it out.  It is most likely that you have a problem with web worms or eastern tent caterpillar, depending on your location.

The best resource for what to do for where you are is to contact your local ag extension office.  They will be able to give you the best treatment possible for your particular climate and pest.

Good luck!