Knowledgebase

Red Maple struggling #141943

Asked July 20, 2013, 1:32 PM EDT

Just wondering if you have an answer for why my tree is suddenly struggling.  It was healthy and growing great, then the leaves started turning brown around the edges and it seems to just keep getting worse. I love my tree and don't want to lose it!  We planted it this spring, so it is relatively new. HELP!  One of my bushes is showing similar signs of stress.  Am I watering too much?

Davis County Utah

Expert Response

This is leaf scorch. In hot dry weather a tree can lose water from the leaves faster than it can be taken up through the roots, even if the soil is kept moist. This is worse if the tree is not drought hardy (red maple is not), and if it has an inadequate root system like your tree does because it is newly planted. All you can do is water it well and maybe mulch around it so it doesn't have to compete with the grass. I think that that is what you are seeing with the shrub too.
An Ask Extension Expert Replied August 01, 2013, 4:59 PM EDT

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