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Split trunk Redbud

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From: Ruth Waszak City: Orland Park, IL
Our two year old Eastern Redbud tree has a fork in it's trunk approximately 4 feet from the ground, with 2 main branches. During a recent high wind thunderstorm, the trunk split at this fork, but neither branch tore completely off. The tear extends 6-8inches. We are currently used a tightening clamp lined with marine foam tape(so that the metal doesn't bore into the tree)to bring the two sides tightly together. Are we doing more harm than good? We're afraid the next storm will tear the tree apart.
	Extension Message From: Richard Hentschel Extension Educator, Horticulture DuPage/Kane/Kendall Unit hentsche@illinois.edu
Storm damage is never a good thing. The tree will have a difficult time healing with that type of split. Because the tree sways in the wind, keeping that split immobile will be the key to helping the tree if you decide to try to save the Redbud. The wound itself will need to be pulled together with smooth edges and joints to allow the tree to grow back together. Cabling the two branches a few feet above the split will apply more pressure than the clamp you have now around the trunk. These practices and others are typically done on older trees with more structure than yours. Your branches may be too small to actually do this. Given the tree is only 2 years old, you might consider replacement with a Redbud that has a more desirable branching habit. I hope this information is helpful and you attempt to save your tree Richard Hentschel
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