Question
Hi, I have an 8 year old double pink althea that was growing  and flowering well for the last 7 years. This spring there were no leaves appearing while everything else was showing signs of life. Now there are tiny tiny little leaves on half of the tree. The other half shows no leaves at all.  Tomorrow is June 1st, I think it should be full of leaves by now, but it isn't. Is there something I should be looking for. I see no bugs, or mold on the tiny leaves. What the heck could be going on??? thank you so much for any help you can offer, Debbie

Answer
Debbie:
May wait a little longer. Examine the base of the plant- look for any physical damage where bark has been removed. Any weed killers used in the
Immediate area? Any cold weather snaps during the early spring? You may also consider snipping off a twig w/the small leaves and showing it to you local nursery. They may offer an explanation.

Regards
Steve