This is a tough situation. I would not cut the tree back to 3 feet tall. Instead, I would prune some of the branches that are crowded next to each other. I would also top prune slightly, too.

Thanks for the advice. If I do what you suggested, do you think the wound will eventually heal and bark will cover it? Also, when you say to top prune slightly, do you mean cut the central leader at the top or just the branches at the top?

I have a few pawpaw trees with the oldest being planted in 1996. I top prune all of the taller trees to maintain them at a maximum of 10 feet tall. I want to be able to harvest fruit without ladders. Also, I prune longer and weaker branches knowing that they will have trouble with bearing a fruit load without snapping. I do not think your tree will heal completely. However, the bark on some of my trees is damaged, and the trees continue to have high yields of fruit.

Ok, thanks. I'll go with your recommendation early this spring and see what happens. That's neat you planted some of your pawpaws 20 years ago. Any good pictures you want to share? Also, what do you fertilize with? I've been using basic 10-10-10 and not sure it's the best thing for them.

I have a few photos here: http://www.whitesfieldsfarm.com/pawpaws.html

I use composted animal manures to fertilize my trees.

Thanks!