Dan F
ArboristSite Operative
If you can scratch the bark and the cambium layer underneath is still green, then the branch is still alive.
It sounds like the lower branches are still viable. I'd check the top branches, if they are no longer alive, then I'd probably replace the tree with something else. Most likely, it won't be worth the time or effort to try to train a new tree from a dead top, and it will never look right.
Raising it so the root flare is at or slightly above ground level will NEVER hurt a tree, as long as it is dormant or nearly so.
Good luck.
Dan
It sounds like the lower branches are still viable. I'd check the top branches, if they are no longer alive, then I'd probably replace the tree with something else. Most likely, it won't be worth the time or effort to try to train a new tree from a dead top, and it will never look right.
Raising it so the root flare is at or slightly above ground level will NEVER hurt a tree, as long as it is dormant or nearly so.
Good luck.
Dan