Question
We have 2 natal plum trees on our property that were here when we bought the house in New Orleans. Recently we landscaped the garden and kept those plants but added new soil and small trees, ginger plants and native tropicals around where the natal plum plants were/are. The larger natal plum is suddenly turning yellow and parts of it are dying. I want to save the plant but don't know what to do. IT's been raining incessantly for the last month and I think that's making matters worse. The plant was cut back extensively by the landscapers when they did the new plantings and the roots could have been slightly damaged when they dug around the plant. What would you advise as steps to help this beautiful plant if its not too late.

Answer
Michel, the combination of root damage and extensive rain is contributing to the compromising of the roots; all you can do is hope the rain lets up, and hopefully it will turn around for you. Often when a plant is growing well and then surrounded by newly added plants, the roots are disturbed and what is happening here is evidence of this.