Problems with a Trident Maple (Acer buergerianum)

[Jfox16]

I've had this Trident Maple (Acer buergerianum) in my backyard for at around six or more years now, and it just doesn't seem to thrive. It grows every year, but doesn't have a good form. I live in North Carolina, USDA Hardiness Zone 7b. What looks wrong?

 

[Chuck]

I've had this Trident Maple (Acer buergerianum) in my backyard for at around six or more years now, and it just doesn't seem to thrive. It grows every year, but doesn't have a good form. I live in North Carolina, USDA Hardiness Zone 7b. What looks wrong?
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Is it planted too deep?

 

[Jfox16]

Is it planted too deep?

I don't think so. It never has really had much of a problem in droughts, and it has never died back on any part of the plant.

 

[Chuck]

I don't think so. It never has really had much of a problem in droughts, and it has never died back on any part of the plant.

Can you see the root flare? If you can't it's too deep. Being too deep will cause all sorts of problems

 

[Jfox16]

Can you see the root flare? If you can't it's too deep. Being too deep will cause all sorts of problems

No, I can't. Do I need to remove the dirt at the top?

 

[Chuck]

Can you see

No, I can't. Do I need to remove the dirt at the top?

Yes, remove the soil until you can see the root flare plainly.