Plum Tree

Question: We have a 10 year old plum tree that looks like is dying.  It is on a irrigation system and when we saw it failing this year we gave it extra water and fertilizer.

What is causing this and is there anything we can do to mend it back to health?

responder: The Question Asker Replied August 02, 2023, 8:40 AM EDT
response: I contacted you on 7/21/23 about my plum tree and haven't received a response.

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied August 02, 2023, 11:39 PM EDT
response: Hi Ms. Nemec,  Thank you for your question. It has been a difficult year for fruit trees. Can you share some more information?  How much water did you use to irrigate or how often did you irrigate? What type of fertilizer did you apply and when? If the tree has sufficient nutrients and water, there may be an issue with the roots. Did you see symptoms like this last year or is this the first year that these yellow leaves are present? Thanks, Emily

responder: The Question Asker Replied August 03, 2023, 10:41 AM EDT
response: These symptoms just started this year and none of the other fruit trees have it.  The plum tree next to is is 3 years younger and has no signs of the same symptoms. Irrigation - Several hours (6hrs) at a time, 2-3 days a week, 1/4" irrigation soaker hose Fertilizer - Water soluble 20\20\20 in the spring middle of May.  Then Low dose repeat a 3 weeks later

responder: The Question Asker Replied August 03, 2023, 12:10 PM EDT
response: The water Soluble was a secondary fertilizer we used.  We used Pellet slow release 12/12/12.  1/2 the amount required that was on the directions for the 1st treatment and then 3 weeks late.

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response: hi Margaret, Emily is out of the office until August 18. I’m sure she’ll be back in touch with you upon her return .

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied August 29, 2023, 1:50 PM EDT
response: I am stepping in to help answer since Emily is busy with research projects right now.  Since the whole canopy is showing symptoms, most likely the problem is in the trunk or the roots.  The trunk looks relatively sound so the issue is likely due to a water--either too much or not enough.  Or possibly, dry earlier and too much water later.  Scenarios:  1) The tree is on sand and was not watered during the dry spell this summer. 2) The tree is on heavier soil + mulch and received too much water  so that the roots were watersoaked too long.  In this scenario the roots would be somewhat slimy.