Hello, I have a tree that has a problem in that while it gets its expected new growth, about 15% of the tree dies every year. This happens with branches that appear to waste away. When inspecting the removed dead branches, I don't see obvious evidence of insects or some sort of fungus or disease. The unaffected growth seems perfectly healthy until one day I look up and notice a new dead branch. I believe that the tree is getting plenty of water. Take a look at the below photos. I don't know the type of tree which is why I included a photo that shows a closeup of the leaves. Thank you in advance for your assistance!

@jedimastermo

Since no one has replied yet I'll venture to give a couple impressions. First I will note that I don't know the exact kind of tree this is. Also I have not gardened in desert conditions. So I'm only making general observations.

One is that this tree must be under considerable stress. It's confined to a narrow strip of open soil of unknown quality, surrounded by pavement, in a desert. Its opportunity to develop an adequate root system is surely restricted.

It may be that it manages to store up enough energy to produce new growth during a favorable weather cycle and then is unable to sustain all its branches during unfavorable cycles, causing dieback. The branches furthest from the roots receive the least sustenance (water and nutrients from the roots) and so are the ones most affected.

The picture of the whole tree is not very clear but it appears that some branches are going off color which may be the start of dieback.

If you have additional information or clearer pictures please share them, someone may know more about this particular kind of tree.

Pat

I always suspect a water circulation issue when I see a tree dying from the top down.

Agree with both above: heat stress from surrounding concrete and certainly inadequate irrigation. You say, "getting plenty of water" how is it delivered and how much? If you've got a little drip system for your surrounding xeric plants, it's a certainty that the tree is not getting adequate deep irrigation. Plus, between the concrete and gravel mulch, the soil below is not getting natural nourishment from composted fallen leaves or added organic matter of any kind. Poor thing. It really isn't a great spot for a tree.

I recommend consulting a certified arborist to develop a program for rehabilitation...new irrigation, replacing the gravel with wood chips, targeted fertilization, professional pruning.