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Baby red leaf tree looks like it's dying #353106

Asked August 14, 2016, 7:35 PM EDT

We transplanted a baby red leaf maple around May. I live in Pacific Northwest . We had quite a bit of rain may and June . It doesn't look healthy at all. The leaves are turning pale and dropping some leaves . What could be the issue. Please help

Clackamas County Oregon

Expert Response

Thank you for your maple tree question. Is it possible for you to take a picture of the whole tree and submit it? It's nearly impossible to diagnose a problem by looking at only one leaf. It could be that your tree is just experiencinh fall a bit early. I'll await a larger picture.
An Ask Extension Expert Replied August 16, 2016, 10:49 AM EDT
Here is the full tree
The Question Asker Replied August 16, 2016, 10:25 PM EDT
I see a hose going to the tree. How often are you watering it? Also, was the tree planted in topsoil that was there before your land was excavated, or did the developer strip off the soil?
An Ask Extension Expert Replied August 16, 2016, 10:51 PM EDT
We excavated the whole yard . Added about 4 inches of three way blend to the yard and Kaye's sod. We then bought this tree, dug a hole about 2ft deep and mixed the soil with the clayish ground we already have then planted it. We watered hard for a couple weeks then have just used the sprinkler everyday for about 25 to 30 minutes .just started watering again last couple days that's why you see the hose
The Question Asker Replied August 16, 2016, 11:51 PM EDT
Thank you for the picture and the additional information about your sick tree.  It is a shame that all of the topsoil was removed; the clay in it is necessary for plants to take up water and nutrients.  But your planting strategy has no obvious problems.  You are, though, watering the plant too much and too often.  It only needs watering a couple of times a week, and only for 15 to 20 minutes.

I think the major problem, though, is what is termed transplant shock.  Here's a link to an article about transplant shock.

Suggest you don't remove the tree, and see if it comes back in the spring.  If you have to take it out, this article will help you with its replacement.

Good luck!
An Ask Extension Expert Replied August 17, 2016, 12:07 PM EDT

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