Knowledgebase
Can this tree/bush be saved? #925104
Asked February 26, 2026, 3:25 PM EST
Montgomery County Maryland
Expert Response
It's unusual for an evergreen Viburnum like this to blow over, especially if partially shielded from wind by a nearby wall, so its blow-down may have indicated a problem with some prior root loss due to rot (if kept too wet) or drought (if not watered during dry spells, as we've experienced during the past couple of years). Given what appears to be a roof downspout outlet that empties very close to where the Viburnum seems to have been growing, the roots getting too flooded at some point may have been a contributing factor.
If you replant and the shrub seems to be doing ok, keep an eye on its watering needs since a compromised root system won't be able to access as much soil moisture during periods of dry weather. The linked page has guidance for watering trees and shrubs. As soon as it's replanted, water the root ball well to help rehydrate the soil among the roots.
Miri