Question
Last night we a terrible thunderstorm with alot of wind.  It broke my rose tree in half but not completely severed.  It is broken beneath the branches and it is still connected with some bark and a little tissue wood.  Can I save this tree?? My husband thinks if I duct tape it together it may work.  He knows nothing of gardening so I thought I would ask some experts.  This is one of those rose trees that have the various colors roses on it.

Answer
If duct is all that you have then use that. But electricians tape is better because it doesn't have the amount of chemicals on it that the duct tape has. Wash and then dry the part you are going to tape. Take two thin pieces of wood like popiclle sticks, and place them on either side of the break. Tape at least 5 inches above and below the break. If no bacteria or fungal spores got in then it should mend. However it is a tricky thing to do and may not work. Don't take the tape off until next spring. I am assuming that you have already staked the tree rose to make it steady. If not then you will have to do that. Place a sturdy stake right close to the stem and end it just under the base of the top rose. Make sure you bind it firmly so it won't sway in the wind.