Answers to Your Questions Trees

Answers to Your Questions: Broken Branch and Damaged Linden

Broken branch

I have a problem with a 6-meter (20 ft) pine tree. Last winter, the snow broke a large branch in the middle. We tried to secure it with supports, but it remained brown all summer and never turned green again. Do you think we should cut it down, or is there a chance it will recover next spring?

Photo: Getty Images

Answer

If the branch has shown no signs of recovery throughout the summer, it is dead. You can therefore cut it off. (Note that there is no specific season for removing a dead branch. You can remove it at any time!)

The text was first published on January 25, 2010.

Linden tree in poor condition

I have a linden tree that is about 35 years old. It has always grown well, but this year, half of its branches have far fewer leaves. What is happening to my tree? Note that two weeks ago, I applied a potassium-rich tree fertilizer around its perimeter.

Photo: Getty Images

Answer

It’s impossible for me to say what’s wrong. The possibilities range from disease to insect infestation, damage to the roots caused by construction work, or even a lightning strike! Examine the weak branches to see if you can find anything unusual, or better yet, have a certified arborist take a look.

Be careful with fertilizer applications, however: you should not fertilize a diseased plant, as it may not be able to absorb it, and excess minerals at its base can damage its roots. Only fertilize healthy plants. In other words, don’t use fertilizer as a remedy, but rather as a reward.

This text was first published on August 1, 2009.

Garden writer and blogger, author of 65 gardening books, lecturer and communicator, the Laidback Gardener, Larry Hodgson, passed away in October 2022. Known for his great generosity, his thoroughness and his sense of humor, he reached several generations of amateur and professional gardeners over his 40-year career. Thanks to his son, Mathieu Hodgson, and a team of contributors, laidbackgardener.blog will continue its mission of demystifying gardening and making it more accessible to all.

2 comments on “Answers to Your Questions: Broken Branch and Damaged Linden

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  2. keirabrown2026

    This is a very helpful post. As a housemaid in Dubai, I also maintain the garden and plants as part of my daily work. I liked how clearly you explained what to do with a broken branch and when it’s safe to remove it. The advice about the linden tree was also informative, especially the reminder about being careful with fertilizer. Thanks for sharing such practical guidance!

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