ASK THE TREE DOCTOR.

Don't know when to prune? Curious about lobed leaves? Have no Fear-the Tree Doctor is here.

Q: Within the last year I noticed a thinning of the foliage on a maple in my backyard, as some branches have stopped growing leaves. Does it mean the tree is slowly dying?

Brigitte Leitgeb, via e-mail

A: Trees are a living entity, so it is normal for some branches to die off From time to time. Ensure that the root system is getting adequate water. IF you water your lawn From time to time, that should be enough. Then be sure any chemicals are used properly, don't get on the tree, and are not applied in a heavy dose that soaks the tree's roots. Leaf drop and branch die-off can result from insect or disease attack; have a local horticulturist advise you about area threats and how to diagnose them, IF it gets worse, consult an arborist for a professional diagnosis. The horticulturist and arborist also can advise you whether Fertilization of the root system is warranted.

Q: I live in an area where trees are being cut down and cleared for new housing tracts. Can you provide me with an example of a tree removal policy I could share with the city council?

J. Hammer, via e-mail

A: Many communities have their own tree removal policies, so there is no one standard. This website helps communities write their own ordinances, so it could help: www.isa-arbor.com/tree-ord/ordintro.htm.

Q: I want to have my magnolia tree cut back. When is the appropriate time to do that in Louisiana?

A: I hate to see a tree's growth truncated unless absolutely necessary but recognize that sometimes trees are where they should not be, like under wires, and have to be restrained. Tree growth should be cut back after the dormant season begins, which is the onset of winter. Do not dress any cut surfaces with tar or other material; the tree will take care of that itself. Magnolias are dense and green, so take care to retain a shape that is pleasing to the eye and in keeping with the surroundings.

Q: Approximately what percentage of the United States is covered by forests?

Taras Rohatyn, via e-mail

A: The United States has about 655 million acres of forest, which amounts to about 29 percent of our land area. This is thought to be about two-thirds of the amount of forest present when European settlers first came to this continent.

Q: Where can I get information on planting trees from seed and propagating them?

Kenneth Kegley, via e-mail

A: Planting trees from seed is certainly possible, but it has its hazards. To grow a few seeds, try to imitate Mother Nature. If the seeds fall in the autumn and germinate in the spring, then you can plant some shallowly, under mulch, and let them overwinter that way, protecting them from squirrels and other predators. Or, keep them in moist (not wet) sand in a jar in your refrigerator.

For seeds that germinate as they fall, plant them immediately, and protect until well established. If seeds are planted where the trees will be expected to grow later, consider the tree's sun and shade requirements. Seeding large lots to grow seedlings for out-planting is another matter and not a job for amatuers. Ask your library to get USDA handbook No. 450, "Seeds of Woody Plants in the United States," or check out our own Jeff Meyer's Famous and Historic Trees [Houghton Mifflin), which tells how to propagate from seeds.

E-mail questions to [e-mail] or write to Tree Doctor/Pubs, AMERICAN FORESTS, P.O. Box 2000, Washington, DC 20013.