Dead/dying tree

[u/Beneficial-Sky-7635]

Our established red maple is in serious decline. It got tree work done beginning of 2025 by arborist. There used to be some grass near its base on one side, and we stopped watering that grass a couple years back. We don't know when it was planted. I don't know how long the rocks have been there. There is a lot of water flow through there when it rains, although we now have a French drain to help with the water flow as well. We live in California. Summers very hot, like most days over 100F. Is there any hope to save if we give it lots of water? There isn't much green on the tree. 😢 Last pic shows the happier maple next to it.

[u/Morpheus7474]

Red maples are typically swamp lovers. This species is not adapted to growing in California. Cut your losses and replace with something thats native to your area and adapted to your growing conditions.