Witch hazel damaged - Ask Extension
A large Doug fir branch split one of the trunks on my beautiful Witch hazel. Should I bind it back together or leave it to see if it dies? Thank you!
Knowledgebase
Witch hazel damaged #681916
Asked February 26, 2021, 2:36 PM EST
A large Doug fir branch split one of the trunks on my beautiful Witch hazel. Should I bind it back together or leave it to see if it dies? Thank you!
Multnomah County Oregon
Expert Response
Thank you for your question. Unlike humans' broken bones, binding tree branches that are broken will not return them to prior health. It is difficult to assess what course to take without photos, and a diagnosis might require an arborist to assess. Here is a recent article on this topic, with links to other resources: https://www.oregonlive.com/weather/2021/02/ice-takes-a-terrible-toll-on-trees-in-portland-willamette-valley.html
I hope this gives you more information. Good luck!