Question
Hi, a week and 2 days ago I replanted a pine tree (don't know what type) that was dug up from a building neighbours yard (was in their driveway to be), I noticed it and asked if I could have to replant as I always like that tree. It was 2 1/2 metres high. Had most of roots around bottom of trunk intact and a large one about a metre going off to one side and one about 1 1/2 metre to the other side. I dug a huge hole and replanted. Gave it heaps of water and seaweed solution and potting mix. I was told when the neighbour bought the tree up that it had been out for 3 days!!! (in the sun too). It was still green at the time but over the last week the needles have dropped off and turned brown, I'm hoping there is still some life left in it as I have just given it it's morning water. Do you think there is a chance of survival or is it all over???
Answer
Not much of a chance. If the roots dried out there is a good chance the tree will die. I would expect that a couple of thing that are not good for a tree happened--the tree was dug without any concern for the root system -a rootball with soil would be the preferred method and the size would depend on the trunk size. Root left bare and out in the sun fro this length of time would dry out and be killed. I would guess that a very large number of the roots were either cut of were killed by the sun.
Conifers do not sprout back as a rule so if the branches have lost their needles it is a good bet that the tree is dead. saying this I would wait since you have gone to this length and water if the soil around the tree is dry on top and see what happens. If no green appears and the small branches can be broken of bent the tree is dead. Over all i would say the chances are very small that it is alive. Sorry.
