Showy Mountain Ash Tree Branches Are Drooping

Question From: Mesa, Arizona, United States
Q: I live in Saskatchewan in Canada in zone 3 just north of Montana. I recently planted a showy mountain ash tree. The branches seem to be drooping and yet the tree and it's Leaves look healthy. Are the branches supposed to droop or is it too wet or too dry? Is there something else that could be wrong? The zip code I entered is not near where my tree is planted.

A: Drooping is caused by fire blight, a disease that can attack Mountain Ash. Also they prefer acidic soil and soils in Southern Saskatchewan vary from acidic to alkaline, so that may be an issue. Over watering or drought will also weaken the tree. The soil should be kept moist, but not sodden.I can't recommend a fungicide for use in Canada. Check with your local horticulture agent. Best And Happy Yardening, Nancy