Hi, when you planted the tree, did you prepare the planting hole properly?, and was it a bare root plant, or in a pot?, if it was in a pot, was it potbound?, with the roots going round and round in the pot, and if so did you get your fingers into the root ball and spread them out a little, this could account for theplant not growing, as the roots are continuing to go round in circles, instead of spreading out in search of water and nutrients, also have you kept it well watered, not just wet the ground around it?, these are all possible reasons for the plant failing to thrive, Derek.

I had just this problem with my Rowan tree the roots went round in a circle and the tree suffered badly from drought. I worked on the roots and added some peat free compost mixed with soil I then left the hose on it dripping over night and for a whole 2 summer seasons I water it on a regular basis. This sick looking tree is now a beauty but I did have to keep at it for 2 years or so.

Many thanks,for your advise I will do as you suggest,it was quite a pricey tree,and being a canny scot I would be upset if my tree died. Sef