Re: OT...Re: Topping trees for shaping
- Subject: Re: OT...Re: Topping trees for shaping
- From: E*@aol.com
- Date: Tue, 30 Jul 2002 11:07:54 EDT
In a message dated 7/30/02 12:29:45 AM Eastern Daylight Time, mtalt@hort.net
writes:
<< achieve results, I'd think. If it is strong enough to support the
extra weight, you could simply tie on a splint and gradually tighten
the 's' curves into the straight splint over a period of months. If
it isn't strong enough to carry the weight of the splint, then guess
you'd have to use a stake in the ground. >>
The splint idea is a good and common one. Here the leaders of many conifers
are destroyed by various types of budworms and you do not see the damage
until much later in the season. The result is a big funny looking bush,not a
tree. The cure is a splint to a new leader and the splint can stay for
several years. Split PVC pipe is lightweight and can do the trick. With the
conifers, not one white pine in my area with a straight trunk anymore, you
must then remember to get out there in late April and spray the new leader
until the trunk is strong and the bud tips can withstand the damage.
In short, splinting is a good thing to make a tree leader go straight up for
a few years. Marge is right. If it wobbles around with the splint, use three
tie supports for a year or two. All is worth saving an expensive tree or a
tree with some time invested.
Claire Peplowski
NYS z4
---------------------------------------------------------------------
To sign-off this list, send email to majordomo@hort.net with the
message text UNSUBSCRIBE PERENNIALS
