When an arborist prunes a limb off a valuable tree, he or she may paint the cut surface with a nontoxic sealant. The primary purpose of the paint is to ________.
A) minimize water loss by evaporation from the cut surface
B) improve the appearance of the cut surface
C) stimulate growth of the cork cambium to heal the wound
D) block entry of pathogens through the wound
E) induce the production of proteinase inhibitors

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The primary purpose of applying a nontoxic sealant to the cut surface of a tree limb is to block entry of pathogens through the wound, helping to prevent infections that could further harm the tree.

When an Arborist Prunes a Limb Off a Valuable Tree