Central leader branch on Kindred Spirit Oak unable to stand straight - Ask Extension
I planted this Kindred Spirit Oak tree two years ago. Though it appears healthy by all means, the central leader has grown so tall that the weight o...
Knowledgebase
Central leader branch on Kindred Spirit Oak unable to stand straight #871021
Asked May 31, 2024, 10:22 PM EDT
I planted this Kindred Spirit Oak tree two years ago. Though it appears healthy by all means, the central leader has grown so tall that the weight of the leaves weighs it down to the extent that it just sits at a right angle all the time. Will it ever straighten out on its own or is there something I can do about it? I've never seen this occur on another tree. I confirmed that there are no other competing leaders.
Hennepin County Minnesota
Expert Response
Thank you for writing.
This is a serious growth disturbance that should be corrected. There are problem in constricting the tree with bands that are done directly on the trunk. I cannot see if the bands you have are affecting the trunk.
The best method would probably a long piece of PVC pole worked in close to the trunk and then banding to it. An arborist could help you with this. https://extension.umn.edu/planting-and-growing-guides/how-hire-tree-care-professional
The extremely heavy leaf foliage may be due to the application of too much nitrogen.
However never prune other than in Dec to March to avoid the risk of Oak Wilt.
This is a serious growth disturbance that should be corrected. There are problem in constricting the tree with bands that are done directly on the trunk. I cannot see if the bands you have are affecting the trunk.
The best method would probably a long piece of PVC pole worked in close to the trunk and then banding to it. An arborist could help you with this. https://extension.umn.edu/planting-and-growing-guides/how-hire-tree-care-professional
The extremely heavy leaf foliage may be due to the application of too much nitrogen.
However never prune other than in Dec to March to avoid the risk of Oak Wilt.
