How should I care for a young tree that was cut off near the ground?

Question

I have an American Plum (Prunus americanus) that was about six feet tall this summer, a volunteer that I fell in love with and was culturing. Then the idiot lawn service whacked it off about four inches from the ground while trimming broken branches after a storm--it wasn't broken, he apparently just felt like cutting it down (SO fired). I have kept watering the stump, and today finally noticed brilliant red leaves sprouting from the stump. Now how do I train this tree so it will regain a tree-like shape and not end up with umpteen messy bush-like stems?

Answer 1

Having had the occassional tree run over by husbands lawnmower (don't ask), I have had plenty of experience with this.  Nine times out of ten they actually grow but very well, so don't despair.

The tree is obviously still alive and ready to go.  It will now send up a number of of stems, just in case it is damaged again.  Select the best branch that is growing upright to replace the original trunk.  Let this stem grow untouched.  Leave the other stems on to feed the plant but tip prune (remove the end of each stem), the plant then puts most of the growth into the selected stem.  After a number of years you won't know it was damaged and the trunk will be nearly straight.  When the tree gets more advanced remove the unwanted stems at the trunk.  The root is now established so top growth should be quite quick.  Good luck.  

Answer 2

I think your lovely little tree will survive. Make sure it does not get overgrown by other plants and that it has enough water in dry periods. I don't see the point of trimming it, I think it's better to let it grow how it wants and enjoy that. The mass of red leaves shows signs of life  - and where there's life there's hope. Yes, Plum tree 1 - Lawn service 0.

Answer 3

I would cut back all growth except your chosen branch.

Then place a short piece of "clear" plastic tubing over it to encourage the single growth to reach up to the light & protect from idiots.

Each year, replace tubing with another slightly longer piece to continue the training upwards.

Best wishes. h

Answer 4

give the tree lots of attention for the next five years.  trim it each year.