Expert: Jim Hyland - 9/27/2010

Question
Hi, I have a couple of conifers about 4 meters in height each. Unfortunately, my friend cut off all branches from about 1 meter in height from the base of the tree. He cut all branches right back to the trunk. My question is, is there ANY way I can encourage/promote regrowth of branches. Are there hormones available? How do I use them? Which ones? ANY technique to encourage growth would be great. Spring has just started here in Australia. Thanks. Jason.

Answer
Sorry no once conifers have entire branches cut off back to the trunk they will not grow back. This is just a trait of conifers. The good news is it is only the first 1 meter so as the tree grows taller you will hardly notice. IF you want limbs down the trunk do not prune any more off. Sorry more than likely not the answer you wanted.