Question
QUESTION: Hi,

I have a silver maple that I planted 3 -4 years ago. It's been doing great until this year when the leaf growth is not really there and the tree is not producing and any new shoots. It has leaves on it but the fullness of the leaves is about 25% of what it has been in the years past. Is my tree dying? Is there something I can do to help/save this tree?

ANSWER: Mike:
Check a couple of things. Look at the trunk for areas where the bark may have been damaged or loose. This may indicate some level of internal decay.  Have you had any abnormally cold temperatures for this time of year? A sudden drop may delay flowering or even damage tender flowers and leaves.  You may need to contact your local county Extension office or other tree care organization and arrange for an on site visit. It is difficult to diagnosis w/o seeing the real item.

Regards
Steve

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks Steve. Yes there is splitting of the truck at the base. Not sure how/why it happened. Temperatures have been "normal" with nothing really out of the ordinary. I'll continue to keep an eye on it with hopes it makes it through all this.

Have a good day!

Mike

Answer
Mike:
In the meantime, you are welcome to take and send a photo of this area in question. If you do, try to fill up the frame with this split and be sure to review the image on your computer first- to be sure it is in focus before hitting the "send" button.

Steve