Question
Hi Tom,
I recently purchase a Japanese maple that is beautiful but I've noticed since I've planted it the leaves on the top are all turning brown and seems to be dying.  It's been about a month now and I'm not sure if this is normal or if the tree is in shock?

When I planted it I dug a big hole and put tree soil down.

Any suggestions is much appreciated.

Answer
Hi Deborah,
Thanx for your question.  Although I am not a tree expert, I can offer you this bit of advice.  Make sure the hole in which you plant the tree is slightly deeper and larger than the root ball so the tree fits freely and is not crowded.  Before planting make sure you amend the whole with composed manure.  After planting, water the tree profusely and make sure it gets at least 1 inch of water a week if you are not having regular rains.  A lot of trees will experience some type of shock but they will usually recover from this.  We have a tree expert here at Allexperts by the name of Jim Hyland.  You may want to get his opinion about this.  I hope this helps.
Tom