Bald Cyprus Tree Regrowth - Ask Extension
I have a bald Cyprus tree on my front lawn that is about 25 feet tall. Last summer, my neighbor’s tree fell over in a windstorm and broke off severa...
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Bald Cyprus Tree Regrowth #870864
Asked May 30, 2024, 8:42 PM EDT
I have a bald Cyprus tree on my front lawn that is about 25 feet tall. Last summer, my neighbor’s tree fell over in a windstorm and broke off several lower limbs of my bald Cyprus. There is no evidence of limb regrowth on my tree this year and I am wondering if I can expect the tree to ever repair itself. I love the tree, but it is now a bit of an eyesore.
Athens County Ohio
Expert Response
Hi,
Could you send photos of the limb damage/breakage?
Thanks,
Barb
Could you send photos of the limb damage/breakage?
Thanks,
Barb
Hi Barb,
Here are photos from two angles.
Chris
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Hi,
I can't tell from the photos if there's anything left of any of the branches that got broken off in the storm. I don't see any that look broken; the branches seem to be either complete/normal or completely gone. Are there any short branches left or just nubs at the trunk?
Trees have dormant buds on branches which can regenerate new growth which is what happens after correct pruning. I am checking with an arborist to get his opinion on whether a dormant bud could generate growth near the trunk but your answer would help, too.
Barb
I can't tell from the photos if there's anything left of any of the branches that got broken off in the storm. I don't see any that look broken; the branches seem to be either complete/normal or completely gone. Are there any short branches left or just nubs at the trunk?
Trees have dormant buds on branches which can regenerate new growth which is what happens after correct pruning. I am checking with an arborist to get his opinion on whether a dormant bud could generate growth near the trunk but your answer would help, too.
Barb
Hi Barb,
The gaps are limbs that got completely broken off.
Chris
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Here’s a closer view of the trunk.
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Hi,
Thanks for sending the photos and especially the last one. Here is the answer from my friend who's a consulting arborist:
"Conifers, deciduous or otherwise, are generally not good at lost branch replacement. Not really apical dominance at play but hormonally controlled /determined growth. Dormant buds are controlled by hormones. That said, it may be too early to know for sure if regrowth will happen. As always, really hard to known definitely without seeing the tree in person. If I had to bet, would be on the side of no redevelopment."
Of course you see the damage but it's still a nice tree. (Note that I love baldcypresses and I also have one in my yard).
Let me know if you have any more questions,
Barb
Thanks for sending the photos and especially the last one. Here is the answer from my friend who's a consulting arborist:
"Conifers, deciduous or otherwise, are generally not good at lost branch replacement. Not really apical dominance at play but hormonally controlled /determined growth. Dormant buds are controlled by hormones. That said, it may be too early to know for sure if regrowth will happen. As always, really hard to known definitely without seeing the tree in person. If I had to bet, would be on the side of no redevelopment."
Of course you see the damage but it's still a nice tree. (Note that I love baldcypresses and I also have one in my yard).
Let me know if you have any more questions,
Barb
Hi Barb,
I truly appreciate your advice and thorough responses. I love this tree and it holds sentimental value for me. I originally planted it in honor of my older brother, who lives in Louisiana (whose state tree is the bald cypress). I understand that regrowth is not likely, but I’ll give it some time and see how it goes. Thanks again!
Chris
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Subject: [External] Re: Bald Cyprus Tree Regrowth (#0140784)
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I didn't know it was the state tree of Louisiana, so thank you!
Take care,
Barb
Take care,
Barb
