Hi Geraldine,

It is hard to say for sure if the tree will make it. Once established, canker is hard to control--especially on the trunk. (If it is located on a branch, for instance, you can often cut off the branch). If the canker has damaged more than 1/3 of the trunk circumference, it doesn't look good for the tree. My suggestion would be to give it some time and see if the tree shows signs of recovery and that the canker doesn't grow. The bacteria that causes cankers is in the soil naturally. Trees become damaged with canker when they are weakened for some reason. The treatment you mentioned for rust in the grass may have contributed to weakening of the tree. I would suggest mulching the area surrounding the tree and making sure that it is watered properly. Weeping willows don't respond well to drought, but you also don't want the ground too wet, as moisture--especially sprinklers spraying on the trunk and canker--could cause the problem to get worse. The tree should be watered deeply when the top 2-4 inches of soil has dried. Let me know if you have anymore questions. I would give the tree a few months to see how it does.

You're welcome. I would also suggest getting your bareroot tree from a nursery based in California, if possible, as they'll be more likely to have those varieties, and possibly other low chill varieties, suited for the state.

Given the fact that you live along the coast and most likely experience little in the way of chill hours, you will need to grow a low chill almond variety. Chill hours refers to temperatures that are 45 degrees or below during the winter months. They are cumulative and don't have to occur all at once.

All-in-One requires 3-400 chill hours; Garden Prince Dwarf and Neplus both require 250.

Hi Geraldine,
You say you've sprayed for gophers. Do you suspect they've gotten to the root zone? And you mention watering close by. How close is...Hi Geraldine,
You say you've sprayed for gophers. Do you suspect they've gotten to the root zone? And you mention watering close by. How close is close by? Show more

The revised version of my book, The Strawberry Story How to Grow Great Berries in Southern California, released in April. It's now available on...The revised version of my book, The Strawberry Story How to Grow Great Berries in Southern California, released in April. It's now available on Amazon in e-book and print formats. Show more

My everbearing strawberry plants are covered in tasty fruit. I'm enjoying them while I do revisions on my book The Strawberry Story: How to Grow...My everbearing strawberry plants are covered in tasty fruit. I'm enjoying them while I do revisions on my book The Strawberry Story: How to Grow Great Berries in Southern California. The revised edition will be out in time for Valentine's Day! Show more

{actor} My winter tomatoes are growing well--have some buds!

{actor} Made a tasty apple crisp from my apples and served it at a class I did Friday night on night gardening.

Figs are coming in, and the birds and squirrels are happy! Hoping to get some, too!

My roses are all blooming!