Damage to trunk of Lonicera prolifera ; honeysuckle - Ask Extension
I planted this non-invasive honeysuckle vine in 2011 and it thrived until a few days ago.
A robin built its nest in the voluminous crown right under ...
Knowledgebase
Damage to trunk of Lonicera prolifera ; honeysuckle #867142
Asked May 05, 2024, 7:54 PM EDT
I planted this non-invasive honeysuckle vine in 2011 and it thrived until a few days ago.
A robin built its nest in the voluminous crown right under a gutter without any difficulty. Recently, after the robin laid her eggs an intruder tried to climb up to the nest and in the process shredded the lowest stems (see photo). I'm planning on using a chickenwire cage around the base of the vine.
What do you recommend for treating the shredded stems? Should I wrap them and in what?
I'm concerned that the vine might not absorb water as before.
What do you
I
Washtenaw County Michigan
Expert Response
Hello,
For treating the shredded stems of a Honeysuckle (Lonicera prolifera), it’s important to first assess the extent of the damage. If the damage is not too severe, the plant may be able to heal on its own. However, if the stems are severely shredded, here are some steps you can take:
Clean the Wound: Trim any jagged edges with a sterile pruning tool to prevent further damage and disease entry.
Protection: You can wrap the damaged area with a tree wrap or use a breathable material like burlap. This will protect the stem from pests and further physical damage while allowing air to circulate.
Support: If the stem is weak, you may need to stake it to provide support as it heals.
Monitor: Keep an eye on the vine for signs of stress or disease and maintain proper care, including watering and mulching.
It’s also recommended to avoid wrapping during times when snow might prevent proper application. For more detailed information and guidance, you may want to consult with a professional arborist. Consult with a certified arborist onsite.
So, they can see the damage.
To find an arborist in your Zip Code go to this link:
https://www.treesaregood.org/findanarborist/arboristsearch
Remember, the goal is to protect the plant while it recovers, but not to constrict it or create a moist environment that could encourage rot or disease. The vine should still be able to absorb water if the damage hasn’t completely girdled the stem. If you’re unsure, it’s always best to seek professional advice. In your case a certified arborist
I hope this helps!
For treating the shredded stems of a Honeysuckle (Lonicera prolifera), it’s important to first assess the extent of the damage. If the damage is not too severe, the plant may be able to heal on its own. However, if the stems are severely shredded, here are some steps you can take:
Clean the Wound: Trim any jagged edges with a sterile pruning tool to prevent further damage and disease entry.
Protection: You can wrap the damaged area with a tree wrap or use a breathable material like burlap. This will protect the stem from pests and further physical damage while allowing air to circulate.
Support: If the stem is weak, you may need to stake it to provide support as it heals.
Monitor: Keep an eye on the vine for signs of stress or disease and maintain proper care, including watering and mulching.
It’s also recommended to avoid wrapping during times when snow might prevent proper application. For more detailed information and guidance, you may want to consult with a professional arborist. Consult with a certified arborist onsite.
So, they can see the damage.
To find an arborist in your Zip Code go to this link:
https://www.treesaregood.org/findanarborist/arboristsearch
Remember, the goal is to protect the plant while it recovers, but not to constrict it or create a moist environment that could encourage rot or disease. The vine should still be able to absorb water if the damage hasn’t completely girdled the stem. If you’re unsure, it’s always best to seek professional advice. In your case a certified arborist
I hope this helps!
