Many pines, for example, bend rather than break, Foundation horticulturists explained. Trees with a few broken limbs Trees with a relatively small percentage of missing limbs also stand an excellent chance of recovery. But as the percentage of damaged or broken limbs increases, so does stress on the tree. And increased stress can make the tree more vulnerable to diseases or insect damage. Deciding if and how to treat a tree with broken limbs could depend upon the location and extent of the damage.
Stubs can serve as a point of entry for certain diseases and insect pests.
Heavy, dangling limbs on large trees present a potential threat to people and property beneath and are best removed by professionals. Chances of disease or insect infestation can be reduced by making a smooth cut through each damaged branch below the break at an angle that allows water to drain. An optional application of pruning paint or other suitable sealant can sometimes help the tree heal itself and prevent further damage. Trees stripped of more than half of their major branches also should be considered for removal. Such trees might survive, but probably at the expense of a shortened life span as well as an odd shape or growth pattern.