How little foliage?

2099euan

I collected - literally 2 days ago - a ponderosa pine in the colorado rockys. The tree waas growing horizontally having beed pulled out of the ground by something wildlife/snow/rock fall? There was considerable damage to the root structure with only a few stubs of thicker roots still attached to the tree. The tree was around 5 feet tall but the top half was dead and rotten - the bootom half had one live branch with around 5 clumps of needles on it. The needles do have young candles starting to develop, but they do not look great. I would have left it as a lost cause but for the fact if it survives it will be amazing. The trunk contorts nicely the remaining branch forms almost (in my eyes) a perfect literati. What I am looking to find out if anyone has experience with trees with minimal foliage and minimal roots surviving. I take comfort from the fact that it appears to be alive as it has maanged to start candle development and it has a much better chance in a sheltered spot with good soil and regular feeding and watering. Any stories of incredible survival would be much appreciated - or just reality thoughts would be good - any advise on increasing survival prospects would also be good.

Many thanks

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Cathie

Where do you have it now, and have you chopped the top yet?

2099euan

I have it outside my house in a pot of gravel and sand with a little of the original soil mixed in. It is now standing vertically (again?). The top has gone - I wieghed that it was not helping and may in fact lessen the survival chances? Any advice?

bonsaikc

Yeah, take a couple of pictures and post them. The tree may not survive, but you should be able to get some good advice from those who regularly collect ponderosas.

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bisjoe

Have you seen this?

http://www.bonsaitalk.com/lug/link_...php?link=403&c=

2099euan

I loike the article about ponderosas! I will take a pic or two over the weekend and post them - then you can see what I am hoping for - a miracle!!

I have collected some Scots Pines in Scotland (where I am from originally) and have gathered some specimens that were battered beyond belief. I have seen them survive from having virtually no roots and even one with its only branch held on by raffia! I know that pine are some seriously hardy trees, I think it is more that I am willing this one to survive.

ficusfanatic

that is a great article/essay. it made me want to go for a drive and collect a couple trees.... legally of course.... out here in colorado.