RISING SUN REDBUD TREE REPAIR 11 AUGUST 2025

The next day, I looked at Droopy more closely, only to discover that two branches had been broken during packing: A lower branch, which I clipped off, and, more importantly, a long upper branch. I immediately arranged for a return and refund; then I began to think of the logistics of bringing a six-foot-tall box, containing a tree in a 10-gallon pot, to UPS. And, as Neal pointed out, who is to say if I order another (which I would), it would be in better (or worse) condition. So I decided to experiment with grafting the branch back together . . . For some reason, my camera just would. not. focus. on the break, but you get the idea. I first thought of popsicle sticks, but then I remembered the drinking straws Neal had bought several weeks ago. They were made of plastic that was extremely difficult to cut. Perfect to act as a brace to hold the branch together. I cut a small section of the straw, then used an Xacto knife to - with great difficulty - cut two slits in it; Neal had to use a pliers to hold open the straw to get it over the break . . . (Keep an eye on those small end leaves on the lower right; I will be using them to ascertain if this grafting works. Or not.) The end result . . . Next, two strips of electricians' tape to hold the brace closed . . . I could feel that the brace was holding up the branch, but I still let it rest on the chair; Neal added some twine to ease the stress on the brace . . .

12 AUGUST The next day, the end leaves seem to have improved, telling me that water is reaching them. I tested the soil and added water; it had rained, so that helped, too. In fact, I think Droopy looked much better . . . . . . I will, tho, keep it on the patio until planting it in the fall, October or November. This way, I can keep better watch over that branch. Keeping this branch is important (to me) because Redbud trees are naturally 'wild' looking; they should NEVER be topped, pruned or shaped. I wll continue to take pictures as Droopy improves.

DID THE GRAFT TAKE? FIND OUT HERE