snow and ice damage to dwarf japanese maple

TeresaL917

Due to heavy snow and ice our dwarf japanese maple split apart at the trunk, each branch splitting down the middle of the trunk. Can my 5 foot high tree be saved? some have told me to not do anything until spring, as my tree is dormant now. some say to wrap it and use a tree adhesive. Please help, it is 7 years old.

Brent Ferris

I think the likelihood of saving the tree is really low. But, the tree may not agree. If it was vibrantly healthy it may survive. Gently shake off the heavy snow, and wrapping the trunk with some wide cloth/burlap bring the two parts of the stem back together, and in the spring, wait the see what happens -- One or both or neither stem may continue to grow,
Additionally, for the moment (ie Friday or Saturday), create a wooden teepee that extends above the Maple and wrap with burlap to minimize damage from more winter storms. I understand another snowstorm is on the way, (heavy snow, freezing rain, high winds and falling temperatures) and should reach your area by Sunday or Monday. Good Luck !

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