Autumn blaze maple has dead branches at the top. Is this normal?

[Kathyo]

Hi, planted an autumn blaze maple this past spring. Top of the tree looks dead. We had a very wet late summer. Picture is included. What do you think is up with my tree?

 

[TNTreeHugger]

What's the bottom of the tree look like?

 

[Kathyo]

Thanks you for the reply. I have attached a pic of the base of the tree and also some leaves on lower branches.

 

[TNTreeHugger]

Thanks you for the reply. I have attached a pic of the base of the tree and also some leaves on lower branches.

While waiting for the expert to give a diagnosis, I'll offer a comment or two.
First, I would suggest getting that mulch away from the base of the tree, from the photo, it looks to me like it was planted too deep.
Second, looks like whatever is munching on your tree leaves is also doing damage to other things growing near it. I can't say if it's a bug, or some kind of disease.


Sorry, but that's all I have to offer.

 

[ColoForester]

The black spots look like tar spot. Very common on maple. Not the main issue though. Do you use a weed and feed in the lawn?


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