[College of ACES] [University of Illinois] [Illinois CES]

Will BLEACH sterilize wounds?

schrader@beaches.net
Thu, 17 Oct 1996 01:15:42 -0500

I have always heard that bleach should be used to sterilize tools between making cuts to prevent the spread of disease. In knowing that nothing living can withstand contact with bleach I have wondered about whether if bleach were applied to a fresh wound it would represent little harm to the exposed and already damaged cells while exteriorly providing a deterrent to the attachment of attacking organisms. Seems they would not do well on the thin layer of destroyed cells that had been treated.

However.

Will bleach destroy pathogens

What effects lin short and long term would the bleach have on the tree?

Would bleach discourage and or prevent closure.

I would sure like to here someone elses view on this.

George Schrader
Certified Arborist So-0448 seeking opportunity to work for company or community. Would prefer Florida or deep southern states.

20 years exp. 8 in St. Louis, Mo - 6 Miami, Fl. - 6 Panama City, Fl. As Owner

Can consult on pruning, removals, hazard and landscape loss evaluations. Have successfilly moved 30"dbh trees. Will sell, work in the field, or teach. Formed and am presently President of Bay Co. chapter of Florida Arborist Assoc. Have been giving pruning presentations to organizations. Slides and demonstrations.

Want good wages and benefits. GARRANTEED to save community a minimin of twice my costs.

George Schrader
dba American Tree Experts
1309 West 10th Street
Panama City, Fl. 32401-1901

Office - Home 904 769 4060
Pager - 1 800 849 6162
Portable 904 832 0274

schrader@beaches.net