Tulip Poplar Tree Has Not Produced New Leaves And Limbs Appear Dead

Question From: Nashville, Tennessee, United States
Q: My tulip poplar tree is seven years old and about 25 feet tall. This year it has not produced any leaves. The limbs appear to be dead. However, there several sprouts appearing on the trunk. Can I top the tree about 7-8 feet high and hope the sprouts will form limbs? Or should I just cut the tree down?

A: Topping the tree will not cure the problem. Time to replace it. Best Nancy