Question
Can you tell me why all the large branches on my 38 year old ligustrum (shade tree cut)appear to be spliting down the middle of the each large trunk of tree branches?? The splits range up to 1/4 inch deep and four plus feet long on both sides of the each branch.  Some of the higher branches have the same split only much shorter and in the middle of the growth.  It has a small section up top where the branches are dying.  I hate to cut the tree down but don't know what to do.  It does have new growth coming out of the split branches on the lower half.

This has just appeared on the tree.  I have three more 38 yr.old ligustrum that are fine.  Thanks for your help.  I live in northeast Florida and it has been very hot and we went through a long dry spell then the last few weeks have had tons of rain.

Answer
Dear Lynn, There are several factors here as to why your ligustrum is suddenly declining.  The immediate cause is the weather although the age also has something to do with it.  Ligustrums live for about 40 years, so your ligustrum is at the age when it often starts to deteriorate and frequent pruning is often necessary.  However, especially because of the unusual weather we have had this year, the tree is suffering because the sudden wet conditions have caused it to swell too fast and that can split the wood.  There may also be some rot occurring in the roots.  You will need to cut down all the split branches because they will only further decline and continue to split.  It sounds like it may be the end of the tree, and I hate to tell you to cut it down, but the split wood will only invite insects and more disease that could spread to the other trees.  I wish I could give you better news.  Please write back if you need further assistance.  Good luck, Melissa