Apple tree with split bark

[Nes]

I planted a new apple tree last autumn, with just three branches. Unfortunately, the bark has split almost the entire length on one of them . I guess this is because of the cold winter we've had this year. Should I cut off the branch to prevent canker getting in, or hope that it heals up ok? I'd rather not cut it off if I don't have to, as it's a fair proportion of the tree!
Thanks.

[littleexperience]

nes personallyi would not touch it after all in next 4-6 weeks the apple trees will start to bud and you will have a better i dear then if it has canker or not then you could cut it off

[FB.]

It might be canker that caused the split.
Or it might be frost damage.
Or the bark rubbing on another tree at the nursery.
Or the side-effects of woolly aphid attack.

What variety and rootstock do you have?
That might help determine whether you need to fret about canker, or whether the tree has natural resistance that won't require intervention.
...and also whether the tree is vigorous enough to recover, or whether it's a lost cause and best burned and replaced.

Can you post a picture?