Maple tree

Question: I planted a maple tree last fall and it seems dead in the middle.  Is there any saving this tree?  Should I give it until next spring to get a different one?

responder: MaryKay, Master Gardener, Tree Care Advisor Replied June 01, 2023, 7:52 AM EDT
response: This was a very hard winter on trees.  First remove the white plastic tree guard and send a picture of the root area.  We need to see if there is a root flare visible.  Often maples are planted too deep.  Circling roots can then strangle the tree.  Also for the future use mulch around the tree, this tree is competing with too much grass for water and nutrients.  An arborist could do an onsite assessment of whether pruning the branches would work or if the damage is too extensive. Otherwise if the tree has a warranty take a picture and have it replaced.  1.https://extension.umn.edu/planting-and-growing-guides/how-hire-tree-care-professional  2. https://conservancy.umn.edu/bitstream/handle/11299/226077/Stem%20Girdling%20Roots-The%20Underground%20Epidemic%20Killing%20Our%20Trees.pdf?sequence=1&isAllowed=y

responder: The Question Asker Replied June 01, 2023, 4:35 PM EDT
response: On Thu, Jun 1, 2023, 6:52 AM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:

responder: MaryKay, Master Gardener, Tree Care Advisor Replied June 01, 2023, 7:33 PM EDT
response: Yes, this tree was planted too deep.  Pull the dirt back until you can see the root flare where the roots come off from the trunk. Check for circling roots. I suspect the roots are circling and strangling the tree.

responder: The Question Asker Replied June 01, 2023, 9:41 PM EDT
response: Thanks for the advice. On Thu, Jun 1, 2023, 6:33 PM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:

responder: MaryKay, Master Gardener, Tree Care Advisor Replied June 01, 2023, 10:11 PM EDT
response: You are welcome.  Keep watering it well and it may make it.

responder: The Question Asker Replied June 04, 2023, 6:17 PM EDT
response: The roots don't seem to be wrapped around themselves but there was a bunch of smaller ones all aroundOn Thu, Jun 1, 2023, 9:11 PM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:

responder: MaryKay, Master Gardener, Tree Care Advisor Replied June 04, 2023, 9:17 PM EDT
response: Smaller roots above the root flare are called adventurous roots.  They should be removed because the roots below the root flare are larger and more capable of supporting the tree.   Any roots circling the tree should be cut.  They will only get larger and cause problems.  When the root flare is exposed on all sides you will know if there are any more circling.  You can see how the bark has worked free for the tree.  Bark is needed to protect the nutrient and water transport system in the tree-ploem and xylem. Try snapping a bare branch or two.  If the inside of the branch is green there is still hope that it might leaf out.  Water the tree well all summer.  Another informative website:  https://gardenprofessors.com/planting-with-a-flare/

responder: The Question Asker Replied June 04, 2023, 9:49 PM EDT
response: Thanks for the reply.  I'm really hoping to save the tree so your information is very valuable!On Sun, Jun 4, 2023, 8:17 PM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:

responder: MaryKay, Master Gardener, Tree Care Advisor Replied June 05, 2023, 4:14 PM EDT
response: You are welcome.  Best of luck.

responder: The Question Asker Replied June 06, 2023, 8:08 AM EDT
response: I broke one of the branches with no leaves and it seemed dead.  It was white in the middle and snapped when I broke it off.On Mon, Jun 5, 2023, 3:14 PM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:

responder: MaryKay, Master Gardener, Tree Care Advisor Replied June 06, 2023, 9:20 AM EDT
response: If you have a replacement warranty I would use it.  The tree may recover partially but then die next winter.