Will the tree survive - Ask Extension
Neighbor cut 2 large branches from my tree. Wondering if it will survive. Thanks, Carol
Knowledgebase
Will the tree survive #863830
Asked April 09, 2024, 1:36 PM EDT
Neighbor cut 2 large branches from my tree. Wondering if it will survive. Thanks, Carol
Ramsey County Minnesota
Expert Response
Without knowing the type of tree and the amount removed it is not possible to advise on this. Also a picture would be helpful. In general trees can lose up to one third of the branches before it stresses the tree. One third is the usual tree pruning limit.
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Hi Mary, Here are photos of my tree. Looks like 2 out of 5 branches cut. We need the shade hope it survives. Is it an elm tree ? Thanks, Carol
On Apr 9, 2024, at 3:21 PM, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
While it is best not to make such a large cut, it should do fine. The root system is capable of supporting the three trunks now it only has to support two. The trunk looks like some kind of linden, maybe basswood. Send a picture of the leaves for better identification.
https://www.thespruce.com/meet-ten-species-of-linden-trees-3269657
https://www.thespruce.com/meet-ten-species-of-linden-trees-3269657
Hi, Here are photos of the leaves from the tree. Thanks, Carol

Sent from my iPad
Sent from my iPad
On Apr 11, 2024, at 6:12 PM, Carol Ped Moore <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
<image0.jpeg><image1.jpeg><image2.jpeg>Sent from my iPadHi Mary, Here are photos of my tree. Looks like 2 out of 5 branches cut. We need the shade hope it survives. Is it an elm tree ? Thanks, CarolOn Apr 9, 2024, at 3:21 PM, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
It is necessary to see the leaves on a branch because the branch attachment can distinguish one tree from another. The following website should be helpful. American elm is the most likely possibility but there are a couple of other trees with saw toothed edges, especially ash.
https://www.emeraldashborer.info/documents/E-2892Ash1.pdf
https://www.emeraldashborer.info/documents/E-2892Ash1.pdf