Japanese Maple Mostly Just Has Leaves On Top

Question From: S. Moss - Ithaca, New York, United States
Q: My Japanese maple is a year old and needed much watering it's first year because drought conditions in Upstate NY. This spring has been unsually we.The tree seemed to come through the first year pretty week with only minor wrinkling on some outer leaves. However, since the beginning of this year's spring growing season I've noticed that that there are only leaves on the top branches and almost none on the lower ones (the tree is about 5 1/2 feet tall). Winter damage? Too much water? Something else?
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A: I can't answer that question as I do not have a crystal ball. I'd visit a good independent garden center or nursery in you area and chat with the manager of the woodies department for their take. Best And Happy Yardening, Nancy