Shrub/tree trunk rubbing against wall

Hi everyone

I have this beautiful eleagnus quicksilver growing against my front garden wall. Unfortunately it's rubbing against the corner of the wall and there's been a lot of damage to the wood. Is there anything I can do to protect it? I was thinking of padding the corner of the wall with fabric, but if it rains it'll just get mouldy - there must be a better way!

Thanks

 

Is that the main trunk or a side branch? If it's a side branch I'd be inclined to prune it off.

You could try wedging something softish, an empty plastic plant pot perhaps, lower down between the trunk/branch and wall to hold it slightly away from the wall?

 

It's a multistem shrub, but those two are the main trunks unfortunately. Wedging something just underneath is a good idea though, thanks. I'll have a think about what might fit - it was planted a decent distance from that wall, but for some reason decided to grow at exactly the wrong angle!

 

Maybe tying it to a stake to keep it away from the wall might be an idea, but I suppose that depends on how flexible the stem is, and also if you think the stake would spoil the look of the shrub. It's just a thought ...

 

Could try tying some pipe insulation on the stem, it would need checking from time to time and perhaps renewing regularly.