Dogwood declining

[coolbrze]

A client of ours has a Dogwood that leafed out like normal this spring, but now has less than 10% of it's leaves on it. No excavation around it, nothing out of the ordinary, tree is ~12' tall & has been in this spot for prob. 10+ years. No signs of insects (now). Here's a pic of one of the tips I clipped, any ideas?

 

[Raintree]

When I come across a tree that has had major leaf drop in the spring. The first two things I investigate to rule out is what was sprayed on the tree or applied to the lawn? The second is what has disrupted the sap flow, from the roots, collar & trunk.

 

[coolbrze]

Thanks Rain. Nothing has been sprayed on the tree that I know of but I'll ask them. Doubt weed control or fert. is the culprit as this tree is 30+ feet away from the turf, but maybe it could be? There are flagstones semi-close to the tree so it's not natural surroundings but they've been there over 10 years.