Knowledgebase

New tree only has leaves on bottom, what's wrong? #561963

Asked May 16, 2019, 5:27 PM EDT

Is this normal, will they come in with more time? If not, what is the matter? I moved into this new home last year, and they planted this in June of 2018 with full leaves. Other homes in our community that have new trees this size have either no leaves, or a similar situation as here.

Thank you.

Weld County Colorado

Expert Response

You are right!  This is not normal tree growth. 

I have questions for you.  We can make a truer diagnosis based on additional information you send.

1.      Would you look on the tag to see what kind of tree you have? 

2.      Would you please send a photo of the base of the tree? I wonder how your trees were planted. 

3.      How did you care for your trees this winter? 

For more information, please see: https://planttalk.colostate.edu/topics/trees-shrubs-vines/1711-planting-trees-shrubs/

 Also, in-person help may be available to you.  Some town or city foresters will come out to look at your trees, for free.

We look forward to getting more information from you soon. 






Weld County Colorado Master Gardeners Replied May 17, 2019, 5:36 PM EDT
Well that's not good. At least ours has some leaves I guess, three other new developments within a block or two of me have no leaves yet. I have the tag and it says it's a "Maple, Red Pointe". Image of the full tree and tag are attached. November was dry if I recall, so on a warmer day I watered the tree once moderately with the garden hose, but other than that we did nothing.

Thank you for your time, I appreciate it.
The Question Asker Replied May 17, 2019, 7:17 PM EDT
So sad.  It could very well be that your tree may not have gotten enough water this winter and spring.

The photo you sent does not show the base of the tree, right at the soil level.  Such information would indicate if the tree was properly planted.  Perhaps it was planted while still in the plastic pot?  Planted without removing both the burlap bag and the wire basket?  Planted too deep, so you don't see the trunk flaring out?...

Does your tree have a strong central leader?  Is there one branch growing straight up from the trunk?  Is it still alive?  You could trim off the dry, brown, dead branches—about an inch or two at a time—so you could see this.  If you see no living central leader, your tree will never look right.  That’s the bad news.

Here is some good news for you.  The nursery that supplied your tree, Harmony Gardens, is thought to be a reputable company.  They may have a one-year guarantee on their plant stock, and will replace your partially-dead tree.  Perhaps you should call them soon? 

To select a new tree that CSU recommends for our area, refer to https://planttalk.colostate.edu/topics/trees-shrubs-vines/1715-selecting-trees/  You can visit a local nursery or the Colorado State University Arboretum in Fort Collins to see a tree species you will like in front of your new home. 

May you enjoy your new tree.

 






Weld County Colorado Master Gardeners Replied May 18, 2019, 12:54 AM EDT
Interesting, would the fact that other homes with new trees are in worse or similar shape lead you to believe improper planting was the issue, as opposed to insufficient water? The tree does seem to have a strong central leader, and I can't reach too high, but if I scrape away the bark from a leafless branch near the middle of the tree, it does seem to be green underneath. Does that pose anything of significance? I'll reach out to that company for assistance as well, but since our builder technically purchased the tree from them, I'm curious if I'll be able to receive a replacement.

Thanks so much.
The Question Asker Replied May 18, 2019, 10:13 AM EDT
As previously stated, the tree must have a main leader to be of any value. It could grow a new one if that one is dead but it would take a longer time.
The builder could be responsible under your warrante.  Thank you for reaching out to find help.    Peggy T.
Weld County Colorado Master Gardeners Replied May 20, 2019, 1:51 PM EDT

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