Managing Dead Scaffold Branch on Mature Mimosa

10-year-old mimosa has one major dead branch (half the canopy). Vigorous basal growth present. Owner asks timing, cause, shape recovery, and whether to prune basal growth.

Direct Answers

• Timing: Remove dead wood any season.
• Cause: Not specified—could be storm damage, disease, or age-related.
• Recovery: Hardwoods regenerate; canopy fills in over 2-3 years.
• Basal growth: Do NOT prune—it accelerates canopy recovery.

Clean cut at branch collar. No sealant needed. Patience yields natural reshaping.