It's very likely the roots servicing the stalled stem were severely damaged to the degree additional top growth wasn't in the cards until a sufficient volume of new roots had been regenerated, allowing new growth to begin again.

Al

Makes perfect sense Al, thanks! One question, would you recommend pulling the plant out of the soil to check for a root prune in a couple of weeks. per your advise 2 years ago 2/3 of the root mass was cut off at that time or just waiti until next year? thanks

Saw the post. Son and I are working on a trailer until evening when I'll have more time to reply. TTYS.

Al

Sorry for the delay, been working long days on the trailer makeover.

I don't remember where you live, Ellen, and that might have an influence on the best time to repot; but, if the plant can be lifted from the pot with the root/ soil mass intact (soil doesn't fall off the roots), the plant will benefit from a repot, which includes bare-rooting and removing some large roots which aren't directly attached to the base of the tree. The large roots take up space that could otherwise be occupied by smaller roots which do the lion's share of the work.

Thanks for your patience.

Al

Ok! i am in Washington state, will pull it out on the 21st and be ready for a repot just in case! thanks!