Q.Dwarf Weeping Pussy Willow
Some type of critter has chewed off the bark on the lower half of my dwarf weeping pussy willow this past winter. The tree has been established in that spot for the past 5 years and it means a great deal to me, as it was planted in honor of a family member who has passed. We have put wire around it to prevent further damage. I am wondering if the tree will survive or if there is anything further I should do? Any information you could give me would be much appreciated. Thanks!
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
If the tree has been girdled (where the bark is removed all the way around the trunk), it likely will not survive. You can try to do a bridge graft, but even those are not often successful. Here is more information about a bridge graft: http://aces.nmsu.edu/ces/yard/2007/090807.html If there is bark remaining on any side of the trunk, the tree has a chance of surviving. Treat the damaged area with a fungicide periodically to help prevent rot from setting in but do not seal the damaged area as this can trap disease in the wound. As long as there is bark that runs from the base of the trunk up, the tree has a good chance of surviving.
