Redtwig Dogwood Branch Tops Have Been Cut Off And Are Lying On Ground

Question From: Ridley Park, Pennsylvania, United States
Q: I planted a redtwig dogwood in early November and it's been doing well. This morning I went out and the tops of all the branches are lying on the ground. The ends look pretty clean as if something sheared them off and the cuts are about 1-1/12 feet off the ground. I live in the suburbs of a large city and don't usually have problems with larger wildlife. Any ideas/suggestions? Thanks very much.

A: No animal I know, with the exception of a beaver, cuts branches in that manner. Deer feed on the tips. I'd check with the police to see if anyone in your neighborhood suffered similar damage. Sounds like a chain saw marauder to me. Best Nancy and thanks for visiting Yardener.com.