Russian Olive Tree - Health

[frankgrimes]

I have, what I've been told, a Russian Olive Tree.
The branches appear rather weak, some branches are covered in a type of growth. (see pictures).
I wondering about the overall health of the tree and whether I should be pruning some of the branches. Just looking for some advice.

Many thanks,

F

 

[old CB]

Don't know about your area, but here in Colorado (and I believe many other locales) Russian Olive is seen as invasive. I would prune the whole thing back to the ground. They are nasty things to work with. Pruning a russian olive is like wrestling with a cat. But if you want to keep it, you'll need info from someone other than me.

Ironically, I remember back in my ranching days (80s and early 90s) that they were promoted for . . . I forget what for, only that they were promoted. Now they're recommended for removal in my part of the world. Got no love for them.