Question
3 years ago I planted a 2" red oak purchased from a nursery.  The tree traditionaly buds very late (like end of May or early June), the leaves are small, and growth rate is low.  It is usually the first tree to drop leaves in the fall.  Last summer, I purchased supplies from Treehelp.com that included microrizal bacteria, root growth stimulant, and fertilizer.  The tree held its leaves MUCH longer than usual, but it still has not budded this spring.  My mature pin oaks now have 2" long leaves but the red oak is JUST showing signs of life in the buds.

Any thoughts on what is wrong?

Thanks,

Tony in northern Ohio

Answer
If it leafed out late last year it will more than likely leaf out late this year. As long as it is showing signs of the buds swelling I would just wait. The fertilizer etc. you applied will help the root system and the overall health of the tree but the leafing out seems to be genetic and seems like it will always be a "late bloomer"