American SweetGum Tree dying

Hi all, I am new to this forum and new to gardening altogether. I have found myself in a situation where we have bought a large property with a large garden but know very little about gardening.

So here is the exam question, we have an American SweetGum tree that suddenly dried up within 3 months of us moving in. I have no idea what has gone wrong with it as I tried the usual novice stuff by watering it regularly but to no use. I have now noticed that it is showing big fungus like patches all over and its leaves seem like burnt out. I am truly devastated as I loved that tree and how it changes its colours and I am feeling now it may be growing dead n will slip through our hands. Please please can you anyone provide any guidance what I can do to save it?

 

Personally I dont think the white spots are a problem, maybe just lichen growing on the bark, do you have a close up of the new leaves that are forming.

I dont think you need to water a tree of that size, it would only be necessary during a really long drought.

 

Thank you for your prompt reply and yes agree, I didn't think that tree had watering issues.

Regarding the new leaves coming out ... this is the trouble that I do not see any new leaves coming out. As you will see in the pics that remaining leaves are giving a look as if these have been burnt out. All other trees in the garden have new leaves but this tree has no new leaves forming.

 

I think that a visit from a tree surgeon is needed to give a professional opinion. If the leaves died and stayed on the tree over winter then that is not good.

 

Usually dead leaves remaining attached suggests dead wood.
Apart from hedging that is.

I'm not sure when Liquidambar comes into leaf, it might be a late one, have a scratch of some of the branches and look for green under the bark.

 

Hi Mak

It's quite difficult to diagnose tree health issues over the internet. It's similar to using Google to look up your sore throat - it could be anything! I wrote a little article on diagnosing tree ill health you might want to take a look at: Tree Health Diagnosis - A self help guide

Basically, it could really be anything. A site visit from a reputable arborist or arboricultural consultant should offer you some answers.