Q.Pussy willow tree
Tree looks dead, but has a lot of suckers coming around the base. Earlier I pruned but not since pussy’s left. Should I cut suckers? Can this tree be saved. It is a focal point in a rock berm.
Apparently the main part of the tree was killed, probably by severe winter weather. However, if there are suckers coming up from the base, the roots are still alive and trying to grow a new tree. If you're willing to wait a few years, you can use those suckers to form a new tree. (Be aware that if your specimen was grafted, the new tree may not be as decorative as the earlier one.) Cut off all the suckers except for a few of the thickest -- I like to leave an odd number, 3 or 5 or even 7 -- up to you. Then go from there to grow a new bush. Here's some basics about pussy willow pruning: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/pussy-willow/how-prune-pussy-willows.htm
