Will this apple tree survive? - Ask Extension
We recently discovered that our honeygold apple tree has been attacked by some animal over the winter, as most of the bark on the trunk has been strip...
Knowledgebase
Will this apple tree survive? #825087
Asked April 10, 2023, 7:39 PM EDT
We recently discovered that our honeygold apple tree has been attacked by some animal over the winter, as most of the bark on the trunk has been stripped clean. Is this tree significantly damaged? Can it survive? How can we best help it? The tree was planted 3 years ago.
Dakota County Minnesota
Expert Response
Hi Patrick,
I'm sorry to tell you but that tree looks like a goner. If it makes you feel any better you have lots of company. Folks all over MN have trees that look like that this Spring ( including myself).
Rabbits.....if the tree has the bark eaten all around the trunk it's very likely to die. You can wait and see but I sure would plant another apple tree as soon as you can.
https://northerngardener.org/rabbit-damage/
Sally Granth, MG Volunteer At Large
