Broken limb on Apple tree - Ask Extension
A few days ago, a large limb heavy with apples split off the main trunk of our apple tree. The branch did not completely break off so we cut off the ...
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Broken limb on Apple tree #467060
Asked July 02, 2018, 12:19 PM EDT
A few days ago, a large limb heavy with apples split off the main trunk of our apple tree. The branch did not completely break off so we cut off the limbs but left the main piece connected to the trunk and strapped it with bungee cords. (See images). How do we protect the rest of the tree? Should we cut the limb where it split or leave it strapped? Is there any protective ointment to put on the wound? Thank you, Debora
Deschutes County Oregon
Expert Response
Wow, that's a huge wound. This branch will not "reattach". It is best to cut the branch off as cleanly as you can and let the tree seal the wound over. If there are rough parts of the break it would be good to smooth them out as good as you can. A rasp is a good tool for this but be sure not to damage the bark while cleaning up the wound.