[VoodooChile]

We planted 3 Cockspur Hawthornes last Fall in a full-sun location with good drainage. The trees were from a local nursery.

This Spring one flushed nicely, the second has begun a weak push, and the third is still fully-dormant. The cambium on the third is still green, and the buds look good, but no break.

Any ideas on how I can induce bud break in the third? I heard the President of Jung Seed Company yesterday mention fertilization as a means to force bud break in dormant woodies. Anybody tried this?

Thanks for the help.

[TrickyDick]

Have the same issue with a hybrid dogwood planted last year. Flowers are staring to pop but no leaf break.

[VoodooChile]

I am considering erecting a clear poly tent around this tree to create a temporary hothouse that will force bud break, much like you would force bare-root Redbuds to break dormancy before lining out in the field.

The weather here this Spring has been pretty bizarre, very warm and dry early on, then unseasonably cool and wet, with an odd hot day thrown in. I suspect that might be the cause...

[TrickyDick]

That's a little above my pay grade but it makes sense. we've had a very warm, dry winter, the driest March on record followed by a cool wet spring. Enough to confuse anybody.

[jwholden]

Either the leaves show up or you have to replace it. Chalk it up to the tree adjusting to it's new site and you'll take care of it if it doesn't make it. It's odd to me to have to help a tree along to break bud.

I had a similar situation with a couple fall planted paperbark maples. Luckily, they eventually did leaf out...

[VoodooChile]

Since the 2nd one is slowly beginning to break, I do believe there is hope for the third. I have read somewhere that certain species sometimes need help breaking dormancy, but can't remember if Cockspur Hawthorne was one.

The weather is supposed to be hot and humid by next weekend. Maybe a few days before that in a hothouse tent will help...