Hello Kimberly,

Wine and Roses Weigela (Weigela florida ‘Wine and Roses’) has few problems but prefers to be planted in full sun. Has the willow grown so large that it shades the weigela bushes out? Read about Weigela here: https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=241521

The Dappled willow (Salix integra ‘Hakuro-Nishki’) prefers moist soil conditions. Read more here: https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c811 The roots are in a small enclosure. The roots could have girdled the tree causing the crown to die. The tree should be planted with the root flare level with the soil. Unfortunately, the picture does not show where the trunk enters the soil.

However, it is difficult to assess the problem from a picture. For a definitive diagnosis, send a sample and/or photo to MSU Extension’s Diagnostic Lab at: https://www.canr.msu.edu/pestid/

A certified arborist will be able to assess the tree and shrubs. To find an arborist in your area, go to: www.treesaregood.org the website of the International Society of Arboriculture.

Thank you for contacting Ask Extension.

Hello Kimberly,

It is possible that the tree has girdled roots. A girdled root chokes off the movement of nutrients and water into the tree. They can also weaken or compress the trunk of the tree above the root collar flare which seems to be happening here and causing the bark to crack due to the pressure. Read more here: https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/gardens-gardening/your-garden/help-for-the-home-gardener/advice-tips-resources/pests-and-problems/environmental/girdling.aspx

If you look at where the tree enters the ground, a root seems to be circling the trunk. Girdling roots often occur when the tree is improperly planted or transplanted. The proper way to plant a tree is to set it in the hole so that the root flare is at soil level and the roots stretch out into the soil. It is also wise to keep the mulch, away from the trunk because the moisture that they hold in against the trunk can cause the trunk to rot.

It appears that the root flare of this tree is below ground level—the trunk seems to go straight into the ground.

However, planting may not be the only cause. Often, when a tree is raised in a container, the roots circle the container as it grows, so when you buy the tree, it may be girdled before you set it into the ground. In that case, the roots must be extended out from the trunk on planting.

See how to plant a tree here: https://www.treesaregood.org/treeowner/plantingatree

If a root doesn’t want to be extended, it may have to be removed at the trunk. To learn about your tree, you would have to carefully dig around the trunk and inspect the roots.

However, a certified arborist can properly assess it and advise on how to correct the problem.

With respect to the weigela, there should be no problem transplanting them. Pick a site that the shrubs will thrive in and move them. Ensure that they receive adequate moisture while they are settling in to their new home.

Thank you for contacting Ask Extension.