Damaged Redbud Tree - Ask Extension
I purchased this weeping redbud tree (see picture: redbud) from a local nursery and planted it myself in April 2019.It's about 7 feet tall. When I got...
Knowledgebase
Damaged Redbud Tree #639130
Asked May 21, 2020, 6:55 PM EDT
I purchased this weeping redbud tree (see picture: redbud) from a local nursery and planted it myself in April 2019.It's about 7 feet tall. When I got it, I didn't notice the damage to the trunk (see picture: redbud trunk damage). Now that spring has arrived, I see that the branches on one side have not grown any leaves (there were no blooms on those branches either) (see picture: redbud2). If I remove those branches, the tree will look very odd, that is, lopsided. Do you have any advice? It's planted in my front yard, which faces south, so it gets a lot of sun (maybe too much sun, although I don't think that's the problem with the branches). Thank you.
Washington County Maryland
Expert Response
Hi - It is unfortunate that there was damage to the trunk of this young tree. Dieback of branches can occur as a result of trunk injury or a problem in the root system (or both). Unfortunately, there is nothing we can recommend that would set this tree on a path to its normal form. While you could prune it and appreciate it as is (yes, lopsided), our recommendation would be to replace the tree with a healthy one.
Be sure to inspect plants carefully before your buy. Check for any damage to the trunk, branches, and foliage. Some nurseries will provide a guarantee period, which should extend at least through one summer season. Here is more information about tree selection.
https://extension.umd.edu/hgic/topics/tree-and-shrub-selection
Christa
Be sure to inspect plants carefully before your buy. Check for any damage to the trunk, branches, and foliage. Some nurseries will provide a guarantee period, which should extend at least through one summer season. Here is more information about tree selection.
https://extension.umd.edu/hgic/topics/tree-and-shrub-selection
Christa
