Question
I purchased a dwarf red japanese maple tree in April,2008.
I live in Kenosha,Wisconsin.The tree is planted in a front flower bed facing South.I planted it as directed and put mulch around it as well.It has been doing fine until today when I came home from work I noticed it was all brown like it burned up. The foliage is very brittle and crumbles up like dried flowers.The weather has been in the 90s for the last three days,but I still kept it watered.What happened? I do not see any pests and the trunk and all branches are very green and healthy looking, it just has all the leaves dry and brittle all of a sudden. Can the tree be saved?

Answer
Hello Aimee

Japanese maples prefer a semi-shaded position. Therefore the south-facing position that your's has been planted in is almost cetainly in full sun.

The problem here is almost definitely direct sun burn and only by watering copiously can you save the plant. All it needs is water but be careful not to water the leaves as this will burn them when the sun shines on them. Mulch with 4-5 inches of mulch, not just a thin layer.

Good luck!

Jonathan www.ecologicagardens.com