Sweet Gum Tree

Question

My sweet gum tree won’t grow; it’s been in the ground for two years. The leaves are really small in size and some turn yellow. The tree is stunted.

• 

Answer 1

I suggest getting a soil test done to see what might be lacking in the soil. Then you will know what to treat it with. The other plants don't seem to be thriving either.

You can see some of the leaves are yellow with green veins. That indicates chlorosis, or an iron deficiency.

Brown edges on leaves usually means a moisture problem - too much or too little.

I hope you got a fruitless sweet gum tree. If you didn't, I would consider replacing it. They drop large amounts of thorny seed balls that are hard to rake (they catch in the tines) and are hard on lawn mowers. When you step on them accidentally, ouch! I had two at my last house and was so glad to leave them behind when we moved.

I also see yours is planted near a building. Trees should be planted 10 to 15 feet from structures. And sweet gum has shallow roots that can be problematic.

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/sweetgum/sweetgum-tree-info.htm