Q.damaged witch hazel
Last Year when we had The heavy snow in Seattle, My wife’s prized witch hazel was damaged due to the snow load. Four major boughs (about 1.5-2”) were broken under the snow load. One severed completely and was on the ground. three others snapped but stayed attached.
I went out within 24 hours and knocked the snow off, then used clothesline to hoist the branches back up and inline. They have been tied off since.
I then wrapped them with cloth gauze bandaging around the “wound”.
All three branches flowered in the spring and leafed out. They acted like the rest of the tree. They are now dropping their leaves just like the rest of the tree. My question is when do I remove the ropes and bandaging?
I believe I am in planting zone 8B
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
Usually, just a month or two will be plenty of time. Sometimes a little longer may be necessary, but new growth is a good sign that you will be able to remove the brace.
This article will offer more information on the care of the shrub: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/witch-hazel/growing-witch-hazel-shrubs.htm
