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Tree Death Confirmation #932473

Asked May 21, 2026, 9:32 AM EDT

I have a beautiful 36 year old ornamental red maple tree on the southern front side of my house that I just noticed has only sprouted new leaves on its eastern most branch this year. The remaining three quarters of the tree are baron of leaves, with the small ends of their branches snapping off when bent. I am asking for your confirmation that it is mostly dead and needs removal. I was also wondering what killed it after all these years. It's lived through harsh winters, heat waves, and droughts before with no problems. The Kousa Dogwood, Crab Apple, and Holly Tree also in the front of my house are fine. I did notice that the dogwood has very few flowers this year. Please advise.

New Castle County Delaware

Expert Response

Hello and thank you for contacting Ask Extension. 

I am sorry to hear and see the state of your tree.  I won't even hazzard a guess as to what might have happened, but I can suggest a course of action to determine what might have affected the tree.  The University of Delaware has a Plant Diagnostic Clinic; it is a free service and might be able to help determine what has cause the tree to go into decline.

Their website can be found here: https://www.udel.edu/academics/colleges/canr/cooperative-extension/sustainable-production/plant-diagnostic-clinic/

The information on the website will be able to answer all the questions you may have including what type of sample they will need and where to send it. 

Good luck!

Regards, 

J.W. Wistermayer
UD NCC Master Gardener
An Ask Extension Expert Replied May 21, 2026, 10:17 AM EDT

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