No leaves on plum tree

Question

I planted a plum tree last year but it’s not getting any leaves on it this year. It’s not dead. If I break a branch, it is still green. Shoots started growing from the bottom of the tree near the root. Is there anything I can do to force the leaves out?

Answer 1

Each year, the seasons and the weather are slightly different, and trees will wake up when they are good and ready. I think Louisiana just experienced a bout of cold snaps, did it not? Your tree may not think it’s warm enough to launch its spring growth in earnest. I think it’s a waiting game at this point. You already established your tree is alive, so that’s a very good sign. I would prune those shoots at the base of the tree, however, as they will sap the tree’s energy from doing more important things, such as creating leaves. 🙂