Green Giant Arborvitae: Stress or Fungus - Ask Extension
We planted a row of GGA a year ago. The smallest of the plants is showing signs of browning. The other trees seem fine. We have not been experiencing ...
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Green Giant Arborvitae: Stress or Fungus #423554
Asked August 26, 2017, 3:25 PM EDT
We planted a row of GGA a year ago. The smallest of the plants is showing signs of browning. The other trees seem fine. We have not been experiencing drought conditions. The tree was fine all last summer and most of this summer. There were old willow roots present on the site; which, were hard to deal with when planting. Wondering if this is lack of water, stress, or something else. I did the spider mite test using white paper and found nothing. I would so appreciate any insight! Thank you!
Montgomery County Pennsylvania
Expert Response
If the willow roots are dead, they shouldn't be the problem. However, if not, they could definitely draw resources away from your arborvitae.
Here is a link to a diagnostic tool for arborvitae pests and pathogens. Scroll down to arborvitae and then click on the links so you can see the damage that is a sign of a particular problem.
If you don't have a disease or insect problem, I recommend you call a licensed arborist and have him look at the planting site and at the trees. Your trees look pretty stressed and it may mean you have to move them or make changes in the area where they are planted. You can find a licensed arborist in your area by using the zip code database at the website of the International Society of Arboriculture. Here is a link to their website.
Here is a link to a diagnostic tool for arborvitae pests and pathogens. Scroll down to arborvitae and then click on the links so you can see the damage that is a sign of a particular problem.
If you don't have a disease or insect problem, I recommend you call a licensed arborist and have him look at the planting site and at the trees. Your trees look pretty stressed and it may mean you have to move them or make changes in the area where they are planted. You can find a licensed arborist in your area by using the zip code database at the website of the International Society of Arboriculture. Here is a link to their website.
