Damaged Wisconsin Willow Tree

Q: Hope you can help me, no one else seems to know of this problem.

My granddaughter planted this tree in my yard and is very unhappy that it is sick. It is a Wisconsin weeping willow that is 5 years old and the bark on the bottom foot of the tree is pulling away from the tree. You can put your finger behind the bark.

What is happening and how can I fix this?

Thank you,
Sandra

A: It sounds like the tree was wounded in some fashion and you may never learn the cause.

I would not pull on any of the bark as you may damage undamaged areas in the process.

Water the tree weekly and thoroughly to reduce moisture stress. It sounds like you should have an arborist look at the tree for further recommendations, and soon.