Q.Freeze Killed My Indian Hawthorne Bushes, What Do I Need To Do To Help Revive It?
We had an unexpected freeze a month ago(TX). All of our Indian Hawthorne bushes got affected. The flowers died and the leaves have all turned brown but have yet to fall off the branches. Unlike our other plants, roses, flowers, etc. which have revived and bloomed the bushes have yet to show any new signs of life. Are they completely dead and should I just dig it up or is it just slower in reviving? What should I do to help it along like trim the branches or anything?
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
It is slow growing, and it will take quite awhile to recover. It will recover, though, likely. They can tolerate freezing but aren't going to be happy about it.
Test several branches by bending, or snapping, the tip. If there is some life left, then it will bend and not be brittle. Scratching the bark surface should reveal green. This scratch test will help determine if your tree is still alive. Here is an article that will help:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/tgen/tree-scratch-test.htm
This article will help you to care for the tree:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/indian-hawthorn/growing-indian-hawthorn.htm
