Question
Dr. Bachman,

My hibiscis tree just a week ago was 8 feet high, however a windstrom came and force two of the stalks to the ground.  The person helping me care for the tree tied the whole tree up and force it into a bending position.  When I untie the tree all of the stalks now lie close to the ground.  Is there anyway I can tie the individual stalks up and force them to grow straight again?  When I untie the tree it will bloom but when it is left in the tied up position it stops blooming.  Please help! I need to know how to save this beautiful tree.

Thanks,
Sharon  

Answer
Sharon,

I would use individual stakes to support the downed stalks while the tree will hopefully straighten out.  The worse case scenerio is that you may have to prune the damaged stalks off.  In the long run this may be the most benefical treatment for the plant and allow more energy to be put into new growth instead of trying heal the damaged stalks.

Good luck,

Gary