How to Repair a Split Fruit Tree with Bolts and Washers

If your fruit tree has suffered a split in the trunk or a large branch due to heavy winds, snow, or other factors, there is a way to repair it and potentially save the tree. By inserting a large threaded rod or bolt with large washers on each end through the split, you can hold the two wood portions together and allow the tree to heal around the hardware over time. Here’s how to do it:

Assess the Split

Determine if there is enough bark on each side of the split. If not, the side with little or no bark will eventually die.
Check if you can pull the two sections back together. This is necessary to keep the split from worsening and allow the tree to heal over the wound.

Drill Holes and Insert Bolts

Drill a hole through the trunk or branch above the split. The hole should be at least two times the diameter of the largest affected stem and one-sixteenth of an inch smaller than the diameter of the screw rod or bolt.
Insert the threaded rod or bolt until the point is through the opposite side.
Tighten with nuts and washers to secure the split.
If the split is long, insert additional bolts 12 to 18 inches apart.

Provide Additional Support (Optional)

For extra support, you can use ropes or cables to pull the split back together above the bolts.
Tie the branches or trunk with twine to hold the split in place while the bolts are installed and the tree begins to heal.

Remember to remove any temporary support like ropes or chains once the bolts are in place and tightened. The tree will eventually grow around the hardware, creating a strong, stable structure.