Straightening a Leaning Dogwood: Winch, Patience, and Care

A 20-ft dogwood bent by a now-removed larch can be straightened—carefully. Use a winch and come-along anchored to a sturdy tree. Attach 3–5 ft above the sharpest bend. Apply tension slowly; listen for cracking—stop immediately if heard. Tie off, leave 60 days, then adjust incrementally monthly. Prune weight from the bent side.

Roots must be solid. If the tree shifts at base, stop—root damage may kill it. Safety first: tensioned cables store dangerous energy. Wear eye protection. If unsure, hire an arborist.

Dogwoods have brittle wood. Slow, steady correction over months beats forced straightening.