Hi Alexander,

Was the tree planted in the last few months? If so, it's likely going through transplant shock/environmental stress. Going from a nursery to our landscapes is quite a stressful event, and we've had a very hot summer.

The good news is it looks like buds for next year have formed. If those leaves shed sooner this fall than normal, there is no need to be concerned. This is very common with newly planted trees.

For now, keep on watering to keep the root ball moist - not knowing when it was planted, this may be several times a week or a couple times a week. But keep the tree and it's tissues hydrated as best you can. Going into fall and winter, aim to water at least once a month (twice is better) on warm days, November to March. Also, maintain a good ring of wood mulch, not allowing it to touch the trunk, but extending out as far as you wish.