Broken apple tree limb - Ask Extension
See the pictures. Can this be repaired, other than just cutting it back to the main trunk? Can it be splinted, or propped up and supported some how?
Knowledgebase
Broken apple tree limb #803970
Asked August 01, 2022, 10:17 AM EDT
See the pictures. Can this be repaired, other than just cutting it back to the main trunk? Can it be splinted, or propped up and supported some how?
Anoka County Minnesota
Expert Response
The branch has been heavily damaged and likely will not recover even if you were to splint it. Cut off the broken branch evenly. The tree otherwise looks very healthy, so a little pruning may even help it. Do you know the cause of the splitting? A storm? Just a sudden break? It would be good to know if there is something affecting the tree that resulted in this damage. The other branches look healthy, however, so there is probably no major disease or insect at the root of this problem.
For information about how to prune trees, see https://extension.umn.edu/planting-and-growing-guides/pruning-trees-and-shrubs
For information about how to prune trees, see https://extension.umn.edu/planting-and-growing-guides/pruning-trees-and-shrubs
fell in a storm. The tree seems otherwise healthy. It's about 30 years old. We've had occasional seasons with Cedar Rust, but no other issues.
so, your recommendation would be to cut it back to the trunk?
Yes - we recommend cutting the damaged branch back close to the trunk. Prune just beyond the branch collar (swelling) so that the cut is not flush with the trunk.