Knowledgebase
New tree only has leaves on bottom, what's wrong? #561963
Asked May 16, 2019, 5:27 PM EDT
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.
Thank you for your time, I appreciate it.
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.
Thanks so much.
The builder could be responsible under your warrante. Thank you for reaching out to find help. Peggy T.