Hi,
Our favorite Red Bud got sick last year and died. It has to go. There're a few healthy shoots, though, sprouting from the trunk, close to the ground.

I wonder if there's a slight chance of them eventually turning into a new tree growing out of the old trunk?

If there is a chance of that, how much of the old trunk should I save?

Thank you,
Sasha

Yes, your trees will grow again from those shoots. In fact, the new tree will grow faster because of established root system. Cut the trunk of the dead tree a couple inches above the sprouts. As the sprouts grow, you can choose one to be the tree or let it grow as a multi-trunk tree.

Wonderful! I'm going to give it a try.

When I cut the tree, do I need to do something with the trunk: treat the cut, seal it, etc.?

Or just cut a little above the shoots and let nature do the rest?

Thank you again!

Don't treat or coat the cut with anything. That will hold in moisture and cause rot or bugs or both.

You're welcome.

When you make your cuts, just be sure to cut at an angle so water can't pool in them and cause rot.

I didn't mention that because its almost impossible to make a flat cut but Carol is right, don't make a flat cut.

Also, don't choose a sprout as your new leader until AFTER you cut down the tree. You will be amazed at how many of those chosen sprouts are the victims of chainsaws and falling trees.

Good luck.
I cut a good sized redbud two years ago and got lots of sprouts from the trunk. But many were weakly attached and broke easily.

Hi,
so, I've cut down the tree, and chosen the healthiest sprout.

Do I need to protect it in any way? Wrap something around it, etc.?

Thank you

Hi,
so, I've cut down the tree, and chosen the healthiest sprout.

Do I need to protect it in any way? Wrap something around it, etc.?

Thank you

No need to do anything more. The little sprout has the entire root system of the old tree working for it. Just keep your daughter's dog from running it down and breaking it off. Oh wait, that was my problem.

DaisyI said:No need to do anything more. The little sprout has the entire root system of the old tree working for it. Just keep your daughter's dog from running it down and breaking it off. Oh wait, that was my problem.

He he My dog has been very good, but I put a little fence around the trunk with the sprout anyway, just in case.
Thank you, fingers crossed, I do hope it'll work out: we loved our Red bud, would be great to have a young tree growing from it.