Can You Save a Girdled Apple Tree?

When a tree has been completely girdled, graftage is the only method of saving it. Debbie, you should absolutely prune it back hard right now (before growth would have been better, but this will still help). Since you mention it is waking up, the bark should slip nicely.

How do you fix a girdled apple tree?

Use a clean and sharp utility knife to trim one side of each end of the twigs so that it will lie flat on the tree trunk. Shape the other ends into a wedge shape. Start at the wound and make two parallel cuts through the bark to form flaps (above and below the wound). The cuts should be a bit longer than the bridges.

Can a tree recover from girdling?

In cases where the bark has been damaged but some or all of the cambium and phloem remains, the tree may make a natural recovery. If in doubt, however, attempt repair. Repair the damage whist still fresh for the best results.