Question
We have six trees planted in a row.  Three of the trees next to each other have very few blooms and are not as full as the other ones.  The limbs are darker than the other trees and in the fall the foilage turns brown and falls off without any color.  

With this little information can you tell me what is wrong?

Answer
Joyce:
Over the last few years, many people are becoming aware of some real "issues" with these trees, especially on mature trees. Besides being quite susceptible to a contagious plant disease called fire blight, branches tend to snap easily- especially with an accumulation of snow or ice or with wind.  There also seems to be some root/stem problems that may cause these trees to thin out and decline over a few years.  Leaves often turn a fall color and drop prematurely- eventually causing significant decline.  It has been suggested that these trees may have an inherent graft weakness (all of these trees are grafted)that contributes to this decline.  String trimmers and lawnmower damage is a big contributor- so examine the base of these affected trees and look for loose or damaged bark.  This is often a death sentence. Unfortunately, there is no magic bullet.  By avoiding these type wounds plus maintaining a good supply of water during the hot summer, you can help any tree live longer.

If your trees are mature and are declining with those symptoms I described, at some point you may consider replacement.  There are a lot of excellent choices.

Regards
Steve