Question
We have had our Japanese Maple for 18 years and never had a problem.  I have noticed in the last couple of weeks that it is loosing it's under leaves, they are dying and falling off.  It has been planted in the same place for 5 years and we have never had any problems.  It is real wide and small in height.  I do not want to loose it and don't understand why the under leaves are all falling off.  What should I do?  Please help.

Answer
Pamela:
Examine the trunk for any evidence of bark damage (chewing, string trimmer, holes in the tree etc.). Check soil for moisture.  If it has been dry/hot, it may need just a good deep drink. Also, has there been any excavation that may have damaged the roots?  I suspect it may be root related stress, but check out those things I mentioned.

Steve