The reason for damage due to girdling is that the phloem layer of tissue just below the bark is responsible for carrying food produced in the leaves by photosynthesis to the roots. Without this food, the roots ultimately die and cease sending water and minerals to the leaves. Then the leaves die.

Can you save a girdled tree?

By taking quick action to treat and repair a girdled tree, you can save it from dying a fast death. When you allow a girdled tree to go untreated, the tree will die. A girdled tree's root plate destabilizes over time, and the tree may topple in even the lightest of storms.

How long does it take for a tree to die after girdling?

Be patient when looking for the results, as the tree will appear fine until the need for nutrients from the roots becomes great in the following spring. Sometimes it might take two years for the tree to die.