Hickory Tree Leaves Are Being Eaten

Question From: ILLINOIS
Q: I have (2) Hickory trees just planted a couple years ago - both are about 5 foot tall and were doing well and leafed out this spring. In the last 2 weeks, the leaves have been devastated by something eating them. I can spray to kill whatever culprit this is, however, I'm worried that the trees may not survive. What can I do to help the tree survive?

A: Make sure you keep them well watered. I'd mulch them out to the canopy with bark chips 3 inches deep. In early spring fertilize them with Tree Tone. Next time don't wait two weeks to treat the pests. Are you sure they are still around? Best And Happy Yardening, Nancy