Saving a Split Trunk on a Knockout Tree Rose

Storm Damage

5-ft Knockout tree rose blown over, trunk split badly but held by bark. Re-staked, tied, wrapped break with cloning solution-soaked towel.

Expert Protocol

• Stakes: Use ¾″ metal electrical conduit—wood fails.
• Splint: Wrap break with duct tape, 3″ above and below, like a cast. Keep moist.
• Secure: Tie trunk above/below break AND canopy to stake. Prevent all movement.
• Time: Bark will callous over weeks/months.

Not an Option

Cutting above break to root: trunk too large, canopy too heavy.

Duct tape cast + rigid staking = best chance for union healing.