transplanting a tree question

[Guest guest]

We recently transplanted a maple tree into our yard. Most of the

leaves died and we thought it might die but new leaves are growing

well. All the new leaves are on the bottom half of the tree. Should I

cut off the top half of the tree or just leave it? I don't want to

kill the tree by pruning now but was thinking it might help the tree

to not be too overextended. We took a risk and transplanted a larger

tree. Does anyone know if I should prune it or not?

Thank you!

Kate

[Guest guest]

No FRUIT TREES? Dang. This would be a GOOD time to plant your fruit trees for

future

Traditional Foods. URBAN GARDENING could be a lifesaver in the future, but for

now it's

major fun (see our cherry tree pictures on the home page!). ***Put in FRUIT

TREES every

chance you get*** Also GRAPE VINES. Be sure to use species adapted to this zone.

Transplanting in July-Aug is technically the wrong time BUT you can get super

deals on

trees from the nurseries. Here's how to make it work....

1) Dig your hole about TWICE the size you think you need. Refill with looser

dirt to halfway

and then plant.

2) Add one dropperful of RESCUE REMEDY to 5 gallons of water and add that as

soon as

tree is in the hole. Mist the tree with RR periodically to overcome " transplant

shock " .

3) Do your best to ORIENT the tree with it's previous compass points (not always

possible)

4) Keep the tree moist and flowing by sprinkling the foliage several times a

day. Mulch the

root base to retain moisture.

5) DO PRUNE dead limbs and foliage. This favors the good foliage.

**** EXTRA POINTS for watering boulevard trees! Do your neighbors too if they

forget. All

these new trees really take root and flourish with the extra watering. If the

first few years

go well, the tree will be 2X as large 15 years later!****

Will Winter