Although Kimberley has it covered just wanted to add that thru my experience in NZ it does sound like over watering. Also what type of soil do you have, Where I am it is mainly clay based and can be quite heavy soil and you have to watch your watering
As well as compost to help open up the soil we also use a product called "Gypsum" also known as Clay Breaker. It helps soil particles to bindtogether making larger particles thus improving drainage and air in the soil
Jul 04, 2009
Dying Weeping Cherry Tree by: Kimberly
Hi Holly, this is Kimberly here at landscape solutions for you. Thank you for asking a question on your Weeping Cherry tree.
One of the first things you need to do is to see if the tree is still alive. Take a small sharp knife and scratch the surface of the trunk or a branch. If it is green, it is still alive. If it is brown, the tree is in shock or could by dying. If the branch or trunk is green, look at a couple of ways of possibly saving the tree.
1. May be getting too much water - root system may be saturated.
2. Light requirements may have to be adjusted
3. Soil may be lacking some important nutrients
4. Tree planted too deep or not deep enough
If the tree has signs of life, take a shovel and dig around the tree. Find the mother or tap root, this is the largest root and see what it looks like. If it is not saturated or looks strong, consider your options of transplanting the tree to another location.
If the branch or trunk is brown and leaves look dead, this plant specimen probably isn't going to make it. If you want to plant another tree, make sure you purchase it at a nursery or store that will give you a six month to a year warranty. Also make sure your soil and lighting are correct. Add some organic mushroom compost to the soil if you plant a new tree. This is a great organic fertilizer that will last up to one year.
I hope some of thse suggestions will get you moving in the right direction. Let us know how you make out and the best of luck to you. Have a wonderful day and feel free anytime to ask a question here at landscape solutions for you.
Kimberly