By Wildrose
Devon,
United Kingdom 
Our witch hazel tree which is about 5 feet tall seems to be dying. It looks as if the forming blossom was either frosted or was caught by cold winds. The blossom is dry and brittle to the touch. Some of the branches still look healthy but many don't.
Is it better to leave it, to see if it recovers, or would some form of pruning help?
It has been doing well in the garden for a number of years and it is sad to see it at the moment.
31 Mar, 2016
Answers
Can't help but just wanted to send sympathy and good wishes - I hope it picks up again.
1 Apr, 2016
Thanks to both of you.
I think it must be the very wet winter plus our heavy clay soil. All I can do is wait to see what happens.
2 Apr, 2016
Previous question
I would leave until any new shoots appear and cut off anything dead above. They like to be in a well-drained situation and perhaps with the very wet winter it has struggled.
1 Apr, 2016