Can I Save This Maple Tree I Tried To Rescue

Question

My neighbor across the street was expanding his driveway and the contractor ripped this poor Maple tree out not leaving much of a root ball. That was in August of last year. I rescued it an planted it in my yard. I have watered it and put it in Miracle grow soil, as that was what I had on hand that day to get it in the ground. I have been hopeful by the appearance of a few leaves at the top bottom of the tree but am wondering if I should do more.

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Answer 1

I would give it the scratch test to see if it is still alive. If it is, a little pruning and some fertilizer may help. Is this a Japanese maple?

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/tgen/tree-scratch-test.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/japanese-maple/japanese-maple-care.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/japanese-maple/japanese-maple-wont-leaf-out.htm