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[John S <swim_at_svc@yahoo.com>]

I have a King Red Russion Olive, probably 7 years old.  It grew rapidly during the first 3-4 years from about 3' to about 9'.  During the past 3 years it has experienced significant die back and is now about 4' tall.

I've seen Lee Reich's comment about die back in his book, but was wondering is anybody has further insight to offer.  There is no visible signs I can find of insect or disease.  Pruned dead wood shows nothing inside either.  Basically portions of the tree don't leaf out, or start to leaf out but don't make it past the big bud or very small leaf stage.

Any insight would be appreciated.  The tree has never bloomed.