I had a nursery plant an Aptos Blue Redwood in my backyard in July 2006.It is in full sunlight in clay soil. The tree limbs are sparce and the foliage has turned gray and dry in many areas. The tree does not look healthy. About 20 feet away from the Redwood I have an eight year old Mexican Redbud tree that is thriving in the same environment. What is wrong with my Redwood?
GMtugboat: Hello, I'm sorry but you needed to investigate the cultural needs of the Redwood tree before you planted it. First that particular tree is not neighbor friendly as it's height is 300 ft. tall and trunk circumference is 4 ft during your lifetime and will eventually get 6+ in your grandchildrens lifetime. The Redwood needs a bed of soil that is humis rich and will remain cool and moist. They can survive in Vacaville but will need attention to establish. Before you plant a tree always investigate where the plant grows best and do your best to re-create that enviornment for your best shot for success.
Is it in a circular small bed within a lawn area, or in a larger bed? How thick is the mulch? How much height has it grown each year, if you kept track?