Question
This spring, the leaves on the branches of my Mulberry Tree are very sparse, and approximately one-quarter to one-third of the branches have no leaves at all - or only two or three on an entire branch. When I examined some branches, I noticed that the leaf buds were dry and easily broke off. We've had lots of rain, and the tree is probably 20 - 30 years old or more. Nothing has changed in the immediate environment around the tree since our house was built 9 years ago. Is it possible to save the tree?

Answer
I would check the trunk for wounds at the base of the trunk.  Look for cracks and splits in the bark. These would be signs of cold injury or some other injury that would cause the sparse foliage.  You might also look for woodpecker damage which would look like small holes aligned in rows around the trunk of the tree.  Mulberries are usually pretty hardy trees and it takes a lot to kill one.  I would fertilize the tree with tree spikes and make sure it is watered during periods of dry weather.  You can also prune out dead limbs if possible. Otherwise, there is not a whole lot more that can be done.  I hope this helps a little in saving the tree.  Thanks.