Hello,

I have a rather large Rose of Sharon in tree form that had a large attack by aphids last year. Most of the plant recovered but as spring started to arrive the aphids heavily attacked again in early March but we got it under control fairly quickly. However, the top center branches are very slow to leaf out, they do have buds on them but very tiny compared to the side thats much further along and is growing fine. I also have a spot on the center of the trunk, maybe 3-4 feet up that is squishy after it rains. It does harden after it dries but has me perplexed if there is rot and this is all connected. Its fine above and below it, but to add details we do have a heavy frost crack along the other side of the tree. We did do a larger pruning on it to help alleviate any weight hoping to aid it this year, worried the crack was related tot hat as well. I have attached up close pictures for reference. I know its still early but considering the same branches are struggling from last year I am trying to get to the bottom of it. I didn't plant this tree but its wide and help swith privacy as its along a property line. I would like to save it. Thank you!