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Crab tree problems #929453

Asked April 24, 2026, 9:02 AM EDT

we planted this flowering crab 16 years ago. For the last six years, it hasn’t been leafing out like it used to. Is this normal or is there something we can do to help the tree

Rice County Minnesota

Expert Response

Hello Maggie,  from what I can see on the photos it looks like the leaves are found mostly on the ends of twigs.  Is the tree being shaded by other structures?  It looks like the tree has been pruned to allow good air flow which helps reduce the occurrence of fungal problems.  The placement of the tree between the driveway and the patio might have something to do with it not leafing out as vigorously.  I will include a website form Colorado State University for you to read.

https://extension.colostate.edu/resource/flowering-crabapple-trees/

Joan Replied April 25, 2026, 11:39 AM EDT

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