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Any way to restore health to over-pruned blue spruce tree? #451910

Asked May 05, 2018, 6:54 PM EDT

My husband cut the lower series of branches off our Blue Spruce tree so that he could access the surrounding grass more easily with the lawnmower. I am horrified and worried for the health and life of the tree. He didn't know that this was an ill-advised thing to do. Is there anything we can do to help restore the damage that was done to the tree's health by this over-zealous pruning?

Douglas County Colorado

Expert Response

It would be helpful if we knew the size of the tree, how much of the tree was removed, and the health of the tree.  The branches he removed will not grow back. If he removed only the lower row of branches, the tree should be okay.  If he removed a substantial number of the branches, you will need to make sure that the tree isn't stressed by providing adequate water.  Mulch under the tree will help retain the moisture.
Kind Regards, Replied May 07, 2018, 6:18 PM EDT
Thank you so much for your reply!

The tree is approximately 25-30 feet tall, and approximately 6 feet of the lower branches were removed. The tree was in good health before this pruning.

I have attached several pictures so that you can get a better sense of the situation.

Would adding fertilizer or worm compost to the surrounding soil help the tree?

Thank you again for your expert advice and assistance!
The Question Asker Replied May 08, 2018, 5:41 PM EDT
Attached are two documents on pruning trees.  Some of the cuts in the third picture look like they should be touched up.  The tree should be fine since it is mature and should be able to withstand the pruning without damage.  

http://www.cmg.colostate.edu/Gardennotes/612.pdf
http://www.cmg.colostate.edu/Gardennotes/617.pdf

Kind Regards, Replied May 09, 2018, 11:41 AM EDT
Thank you!
The Question Asker Replied May 09, 2018, 12:22 PM EDT
You are welcome!
Kind Regards, Replied May 14, 2018, 12:40 PM EDT

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