Tree Harmed by Pruning - Ask Extension
I have a multistem hotwings tartarian maple. A tree service trimmed it in the fall. This spring, approximately 1/3 of the tree is not leafing or buddi...
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Tree Harmed by Pruning #928351
Asked April 14, 2026, 11:14 AM EDT
I have a multistem hotwings tartarian maple. A tree service trimmed it in the fall. This spring, approximately 1/3 of the tree is not leafing or budding. Can the tree come back from this? If so, how should I care for this tree?
This tree also has some older bark damage. I don't know how it happened. What should I do for that?
Thank you!!
Cheryl
Larimer County Colorado
Expert Response
Hi Cheryl,
I suspect it's linked more to the dry weather we've been having and not to pruning. I think it's still a "wait and see" on those limbs, but definitely boost irrigation to the tree.
The bark ooze and discoloration could again be linked to the dry weather - the tree will naturally shrink and contract when it experiences drought, which could create some of the cracks. But hopefully they are just surface/superficial wounds.
Use a hose and sprinkler to water (for now) and focus on the area just inside and outside the tree canopy.
I suspect it's linked more to the dry weather we've been having and not to pruning. I think it's still a "wait and see" on those limbs, but definitely boost irrigation to the tree.
The bark ooze and discoloration could again be linked to the dry weather - the tree will naturally shrink and contract when it experiences drought, which could create some of the cracks. But hopefully they are just surface/superficial wounds.
Use a hose and sprinkler to water (for now) and focus on the area just inside and outside the tree canopy.
