It was the right move to dig down along the trunk looking for rot and girdling roots. This tree was planted too deeply, the root flare was not exposed before planting. Then seasons of mulch were applied compounding the problem. This is Acer palmatum and they do not like wet feet. The tree could benefit from vertical mulching using a mix of sharp silica, pine fines, and phc roots organic fertilizer. The old pruning cuts where stubs were left is not proper for Acer palmatum and should be taken back to the branch collar which is much closer to the trunk on Acer palmatum to prevent the bark from rotting down the trunk which is a problem for these trees as they age and don't recover from branch removal as quickly.
PSA Japanese maples acer palmatum are NOT hardy in any way, though acer generally are. Not many acer like wet feet either, drainage is very important for 9/10(estimation) of tree species, and shrubs for that matter.
II just like to say what a fantastic video on a Japanese Maple tree thank you for sharing that with us it was all some I will keep that in mind in near future thank you and be safe😍😍❤❤👍
I believe the term "shade tree" means trees for giving shade. At least here where I am from, all the nurseries sell these as shade trees, for providing shade to the landscape. Lol anyway, unless it's a young sapling, or distressed in any way, these maples and most other trees thrive with direct sun. As long as you keep it healthy, it's well established, and watered. It should be just fine in the sun. Like all living (and I guess non living) things, too much of anything will do some damage. And too much heat, with adding those other issues I mentioned can definitely do some damage.
@@tylerwaxman7512 It looked to me like rot of some sort. It’s a shame that this trees canopy wasn’t opened up Japanese style to allow sunlight and air circulation in previous years. No air and no sunlight leads to dead branches.
@@tylerwaxman7512 such a shame - i have same tree and a large dead branch on the inside... i dont really know if i should cut it back or not and when to do this , winter? autumn?
Four people in the field & not one of you has a probing instrument &/or tiny saw to gently cut into or replace that one root (which, alone, is not likely the cause of the problem)? No mention of root examination or excavation using an air tool around the entire stem or ball? No mention or analysis of volcano mulching or over watering in the past or present? RU-vid universe, special place for very special people!
They lose their leaves if it's too hot. They do that as a defense mechanism so the tree might be alive. I hope you didn't get rid of it.. It will grow its leaves back the next year. Move it to a shady area.
Will Mezz not sure where u are but I suggest drowning the space once or twice a week if it’s hot and adding mulch just don’t volcano the mulch but like a. Doom said plants are tough they just need some care/attention
I wish mine would die! I hate these lousy trees. All they do is make a huge mess every spring with their seed & other crap that falls off of them. They suck!
