Hello all,

the house I purchased last included a Mount Royal plum tree that's probably older than 30 years. Last year it was decimated by Japanese beetles and this spring has yet to put forth any buds. I am wondering if it is just slow getting going or if it has died. The crab apple next to it is in full bloom right now.

If it has died, what are the next steps for replacement? Cut it down, pull the stump somehow and replant? I've never replaced a tree before.

What are some nice varieties of self-pollinating plum for zone 4? Should I stick with the mount royal of look at something else?

Thanks!