Knowledgebase

Witches brooms in landscaping #845196

Asked August 10, 2023, 9:24 PM EDT

Hello, how do I know why my hydengians and Forsythia has what I think is Witches Broom. First the hydrangeas started to partially grow in spring. one did not grow normal leaves at all, and the other one partially did, one was normal but did not give flowers. The applecrab tree looks like part was slowly growing I am not sure it is the same, now looks normal. and Today august 10 just looked at my Forsythia and has the same little clusters. I am afraid is in all my landscaping and I do not know. Is there a test? Thank you.

Jackson County Minnesota

Expert Response

It would be helpful to check the lower trunks of shrubs  since this I summer we see lots of these kinds of damage from rabbit winter damage.

https://extension.umn.edu/news/animal-damage-trees-and-shrubs

Another couple of helpful websites that gives you an idea of what to look for:
1.  https://apps.extension.umn.edu/garden/diagnose/plant/deciduous/forsythia/branchesdead.html
2.  https://apps.extension.umn.edu/garden/diagnose/plant/deciduous/hydrangea/branchesdead.html


The Plant Disease Clinic can do tests for disease.  Call them first since you have multiple plants.
https://pdc.umn.edu/
MaryKay, Master Gardener, Tree Care Advisor Replied August 11, 2023, 6:33 PM EDT

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