My 2nd Orangeola was planted in amended sandy soil, not directly under the canopy of a red maple but close enough to it enjoys some protection against western afternoon sun (NE TX)

It was planted in late summer 2023 and it did well until March 2024 when I noticed droopy foliage. Checked for excessive moisture and didn't think it was too wet. From droopiness the foliage has become completely brittle, as if it hasn't been watered in months. Can you share your knowledge as to what the be problem is.

First orangeola was in a pot—it died

2nd orangeola died from overwatering from a malfunctioning sprinkler

3rd orangeola was planted in same spot as #2. I think it's dying or dead. No overwatering issues unless this tree requires cacti amt of moisture.

Orangeola do not like me😔😔😔

Scratch a branch to see if its still alive

Well, not an expert here, but here's what I know about Japanese Maple care. (And why I can't grow them here.)
They prefer slightly acidic soil, with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5.
Soil needs to be "well drained".
They like consistent moisture with regular watering.
Part shade is best, with protection from wind.
I suspect that your conditions are just not right for this particular tree, and recommend that you try something else.

Japanese maples prefer moist, well-drained soil. In East Texas, soil pH is neutral to acidic so it will not impact it. Planting a Japanese maple in amended sandy soil that has been properly amended can work well, but consider that sandy soil drains quickly and may not retain moisture or nutrients as well as needed. You never said if you were frequently testing the soil moisture when droopy and how was it. JMs are susceptible to root rot if planted in soil that remains waterlogged. Sandy soil naturally provides good drainage, but amending it with organic matter can further improve drainage while still retaining some moisture for the tree's roots. Both Japanese maples and red maples have similar shallow root systems that can compete for water and nutrients if they are planted too closely together. The roots of a red maple tree (Acer rubrum) can extend beyond the tree's canopy. While the majority of a tree's roots typically grow within the top few feet of soil and could extend horizontally well beyond the canopy's edge, some grow vertically and penetrate deeper into the soil.

Luis, I didn't check as freq as every other day but more like once weekly. It def never felt soggy but it did feel cool. What is puzzling me is that I have 6 other JM planted in similar conditions and they're all thriving. I have a little yard so soil diversity should not be a factor. I have grown JM for last 3 decades but none have ever given me such grief. Ugh!

Appreciate everybody's comments.

3 orangeolas came from diff sources so I certainly can't blame orig. Grower.