I planted this hinoki 1 year ago. It has been turning brown ever since. The ground seems to be fine, not too wet or dry.

I am trying to save this tree but I don't think it's going to make it. So I took all the browning off 2 months ago, and put holly-tone down. No new growth so far and some parts seem to still be turning brown.

I've attached some photos of the tree.

Thanks