Question
I originally emailed Kathy Crawley but am told she is unavailable.  I have a mature sunburst locust that is dying.  It has many dead branches and a few leaflets on a few branches scattered in the tree. Each year the tree has been getting sparcer and I've treated it with insecticide and systemic insecticide but don't see evidence of pests or disease.  Any remedy?  Tree is about 45 yrs old in Flint, Michigan.

Answer
Jim:
Sounds like this tree may have some level of decay, perhaps inside- that is not readily visible from the outside. The tree often becomes thinner and thinner over time. Many bacteria and fungal organisms can cause this. Sorry, but no magic bullet. This decline is often slow, but progressive- until the tree becomes structurally unsound. This may require removal. Regular watering and fertilization may prolong the life, but the tree may ultimately succumb.
Regards
Steve