Yes, the planting and disturbing of the non-woody roots could have caused
this especially if the tree was already stressed.


--
Many tree problems are associated with the following: They are Case
Sensitive.

Troubles in the Rhizosphere
http://www.treedictionary.com/DICT2003/shigo/RHIZO.html

Unhealthy Trees from the Nursery / Improper Planting
http://home.ccil.org/~treeman/sub1.html
and
Look up "Tree Planting" http://www.treedictionary.com

Improper Mulching - http://home.ccil.org/~treeman/sub3.html
and
http://www.treedictionary.com/DICT2003/M/ Look up "Mulch"

Improper Pruning
http://www.treedictionary.com/DICT2003/tree_pruning

Improper Fertilization (See A Touch of Chemistry)
http://www.treedictionary.com/DICT2003/shigo/CHEM.html

Tree Farming and Related Problems
http://www.treedictionary.com/DICT2003/SOUND/
- -
Sincerely,
John A. Keslick, Jr.
Arborist
http://home.ccil.org/~treeman
and www.treedictionary.com
Beware of so-called tree experts who do not understand tree biology.
Storms, fires, floods, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions keep reminding us
that we are not the boss.

"Kay Dolan" wrote in message
...

I'm new to the forum and not an expert gardener. Can anyone help explain
why a 10 year old weeping willow has died. It has been healthy and
undisturbed, but all this years new growth has died. The only
difference is this year I planted petunias around it? would that cause
a problem. We have not been flooded, nor have has it been too dry. Any
help would be appreciated though I fear too late for this tree but I
will be replacing it and would like to avoid facing the same problem.




--
Kay Dolan