Question
We purchased from a local nursery and planted it the same day as instructed. Two days later most of the leaves were dead and falling off. I checked the roots with a moisture meter and it was almost dry. I watered right away and have been checking it daily. However it does not seem to be coming back. What can I do?

Answer
You did not say when this tree was planted. If it was planted this spring and the leaves have not budded out I would say the tree is dead. IF it was just planted within the last month you might check and see if the tree is still alive. Start near the terminal to and scrap a small bit of bark off the branch and if the color under the bark is green the branch is still alive at this point on the branch. If the color is brown the branch is dead at this point on the branch--if brown continue down the branch scraping at intervals until you find green or reach the main stem. Try other branches and if no green is found the tree is dead. IF you find green I would continue watering when the soil is drying and wait until next spring to see what happens.

IF the tree dies this quick falling planting I would say the tree was defective when bought and I would contact the nursery that you bought it from and ask fro a replacement. In the long run this is the best solution.

When you get the new tree, dig the hole twice the size of the root ball and as deep and fill with good top soil or potting soil. And mulch around the tree with not more than 3 inches deep of organic mulch not piled up on the trunk. This will help hold moisture around the roots. Do not fertilize for the first year after planting.