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Spring Snow Crab Apple Tree Planted Oct 2012 #413712

Asked July 12, 2017, 2:05 PM EDT

Please see the photos of this tree. The first one was taken in the spring of 2013. The second and third photo were taken today, The open gapping spot on the left side of the tree in the 2nd and 3rd photo is becoming more pronounced and visible. Will this fill in over time? It has not lost any branches and also it doesn't look like any of my neighbors spring snow ... their trees are all rather plump rounder and fuller. I've had this tree under the care of an arborist since it was first planted. But if the future look of this tree is to be as it is now or even worsen, I'm seriously considering removing it....would like your advise. Thank you. Elizabeth Parker

Hennepin County Minnesota

Expert Response

Hi,

You can perhaps prune the crabapple (in late fall) to a more desirable shape, but I can't say that will produce the shape you desire.

http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d738

Thank you for your inquiry and good luck! Replied July 12, 2017, 2:46 PM EDT

Do you mean to remove the top of the tree to just below the gap?   Could you be more specific when you say "prune"  .... what exactly can I prune to fill in that gap?   And will this tree fill in and be full and plump at some point or is this possibly not even a Spring Snow Crab Apple?  thanks again.


elizabeth

The Question Asker Replied July 12, 2017, 3:17 PM EDT

You're not going to be able to fill the gap, but you might be able to make it more symmetrical. I can't say that the tree will fill in. Maybe the arborist has some ideas.

It sure looks like a Spring Snow, but just not one of the rounder ones.


Thank you for your inquiry and good luck! Replied July 13, 2017, 5:47 PM EDT

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