Why is my tangelo tree losing its bark?

[maybedave]

Is this some sort of disease that I need to treat? Or perhaps related to the low soil level that I've been meaning to address? I live in Southern California.

Thank you for your help.

 

[Chuck]

Low soil level?????????? You must leave the trees root flare exposed. That looks a lot like a lightning strike. How are those light wires attached to the tree?

 

[maybedave]

Lightning strike? Holy cow! If that's the case, I'm bummed that I missed it! Lighting is rare as it is around here.

Oh? so the soil isn't low? (I was just told it was by a more experience homeowner) Cool... less work for me!

The light wire is just looped around the trunk and held there by friction.

 

[Chuck]

Lightning strike? Holy cow! If that's the case, I'm bummed that I missed it! Lighting is rare as it is around here.

Oh? so the soil isn't low? (I was just told it was by a more experience homeowner) Cool... less work for me!

The light wire is just looped around the trunk and held there by friction.

Check and make sure the wire isn't frayed.. Google root flare and look at the pictures. I don't think it is a disease but is the tree leaking a sap anywhere?