Branch deformity - Ask Extension
Hi,
While pruning an Italian Plum, I came across this oddity. The tree is decades old but thriving. It tends to be resistant to fungus.
Thanks
Knowledgebase
Branch deformity #924412
Asked February 10, 2026, 11:41 AM EST
Hi,
While pruning an Italian Plum, I came across this oddity. The tree is decades old but thriving. It tends to be resistant to fungus.
Thanks
Marion County Oregon
Expert Response
Dear Gardener,
Thank you for contacting us about the branching pattern of your plant. The plant appears to be a grapevine, which is normally trained into a manageable form that produces the most fruit. Branching is normal for these vines.
If you wish to keep the plant, let me know what shape and size you are going for and I will be happy to try to advise you. Please note that some sort of support is needed... a fence or wire trellis, or something similar that allows the plant to grow at least 8 feet horizontally with support.
Thank you for contacting us about the branching pattern of your plant. The plant appears to be a grapevine, which is normally trained into a manageable form that produces the most fruit. Branching is normal for these vines.
If you wish to keep the plant, let me know what shape and size you are going for and I will be happy to try to advise you. Please note that some sort of support is needed... a fence or wire trellis, or something similar that allows the plant to grow at least 8 feet horizontally with support.
Ummm... I think you had better read my question again. Thanks
Dear Gardener,
My apologies if I misunderstood. The branch in your photo appears to have been pruned off the main plant. If you are asking why a branch will witch-broom into multiple shoots, this can be caused by stress, injury, or genetics. It is not a result of disease or pests.
If this does not address your question, please reply with added details.
My apologies if I misunderstood. The branch in your photo appears to have been pruned off the main plant. If you are asking why a branch will witch-broom into multiple shoots, this can be caused by stress, injury, or genetics. It is not a result of disease or pests.
If this does not address your question, please reply with added details.
