QUESTION: My ash, plum, and pomegranate leaf margins are turning brown and drying up. The leaves are yellowish in color with some green remaining between the veins. I have been watering the trees using a well. They are planted in my lawn. I used "Weed and Feed" on the lawn this spring and again during the summer. The trees are just looking sick and I am feeling like the trees.

ANSWER: The trees are showing the signs of herbicide damage. "Weed and Feed" products contain fertilizer and 2,4-D herbicide. Inert particles like clay are coated with the herbicide which releases into the soil when watered. The herbicide 2,4-D will kill many broadleaf weeds in the lawn. However, the herbicide also can damage or kill other broadleaf plants. These trees are showing symptoms, but did not receive a large enough dose to kill them. The herbicide reached the shallow rooted trees, was absorbed, and you see the symptoms in the leaves. Control: Do not apply 2,4-D type herbicides (as a spray or in a "Weed and Feed" product) where desired broadleaf plants will absorb them through the roots or leaves. Many broadleaves like roses and grapes are very sensitive to 2,4-D type herbicides. The trees will most likely not show symptoms in the spring. For now the leaves will have to drop so that the trees will not look sick. Just a note on the herbicide 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (the chemical name), or 2,4-D for short and related compounds. This herbicide comes in several different formulations. If it is to be used around plants that are susceptible, i.e. broadleaf plants, use an amine formulation. It is less volatile than an ester formulation. You must read the label and find the chemical name. If amine or ester appears in the chemical name you will know the type of formulation.