Oak Tree Root Knuckle Has Been Cut Open By Lawn Mower

Question From: M. Huggard - Rochester, Michigan, United States
Q: I enjoy your column and appreciate that you continue to contribute to our community's activities. My lawn cutter has cut the bark off of one of my oak trees 'knuckles' (root) and I am worried that the tree is exposed to insects. it is about 3 x4". He will lift his blade but I am worried about the tree being exposed to anything. Advice?

A: Quick like a bunny paint the injury with latex pain. I would create a barrier around the tree, a single layer of brick with no more than tree inches of mulch. Do paint that wound ASAP. Best Nancy