Transplanted trees lost most foliage, but still alive

[joezapp]

Rose of Sharon

Schipp new growth

Schipp

Hi. Some trees that I transplant suffer a near death experience, turning brown and losing all foliage. I don't give up trying to bring them back, though, and I am often rewarded with a tree that comes back to life. The new growth, however, is at the very bottom. Attached are pics of a laurel schipp and a rose of sharon. I'm wondering if I must cut down to the live growth and let the trees start anew, or if with patience the rest will come back? It took 2 1/2 months to obtain this new growth. Any advice on how to proceed from here would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

[rainbowgardener]

The dead branches are dead and you might as well get rid of them. The tree is coming back from the roots. I have a beautyberry bush and a crepe myrtle that did the same thing - died back almost entirely when we had a super fierce winter two years ago and then have been coming back from the roots.

[joezapp]

Thanks so much for the reply. Yes, that's what happened in this case, too. Late autumn transplant and a very harsh winter. I had this also happen on a holly transplant in 2012 when I transplanted late spring before a brutally hot summer. What I did with the holly was I cut it down to the new growth and then buried everything but the best new branch with the new branch upright to start a new tree. It looks great today.

Should I proceed the same here with the Laurel Schipp? What do you suggest? I'm thinking it will be the only way to get a main stem. Thanks...

[Jaiaceae]

Cut the shrub right back and keep the crown and surrounding roots well managed eg: don't over water / underwater. Keep soil aerated to allow air through to the roots. I wouldn't suggest feeding it until you see signs of growth. Lookout for tiny buds and shoots when warm weather arrives

Good luck

[joezapp]

Thanks for the reply. Yes, I did that and I now have some shoots. Seems like it's ready to start a new life. I'll patiently watch it grow. Thanks!

[olgareyna]

I have two 6ft oak trees growing together and are very healthy and beautiful, what happens if I just leave them alone?