I planted this tulip poplar about 2 years ago. Last year it was fine, but this year it is not leafing out in a normal way. The leaf growth is erratic, as you can see here. Some of the bare branches were dead and snapped off, while others are alive, even without leaves. This tree is in a sprinkler zone, so I don't think lack of water is the issue. I have read where this can be caused by the tree being buried too deep, so I have added that photo too. Is there another diagnosis for this issue and (I hope) a fix? I worry that the tree may not survive our very hot summers here in Arkansas (zone 8 and counting...) We also seem to have a regular Arctic Blast of several days of cold, between -2 and 10 above, usually in January or February. I have lost a couple of poplars due to the extremes and the stress they cause. Thanks for any advice!
