Blue Spruce is thinning - Ask Extension
I have a large number of well established Blue Spruce trees in my yard and the mid section of them is turning brown and thinning out. I would like t...
Knowledgebase
Blue Spruce is thinning #448459
Asked April 19, 2018, 11:46 AM EDT
I have a large number of well established Blue Spruce trees in my yard and the mid section of them is turning brown and thinning out. I would like to know if this is a disease or some other affliction and if I can stop it.
Thanks
Thanks
Livingston County Michigan
Expert Response
Colorado blue spruce trees can be beautiful trees in the landscape but are subject to a wide range of insect and disease problems that can impact their growth and aesthetic appeal. There are a number of things that can cause the interior needles to drop. http://msue.anr.msu.edu/uploads/files/AABI/SpruceDecline-web.pdf
I suspect one of the needlecast diseases (Rhizosphaera or Stigmina) we find in spruce is the culprit.Before you spray I would recommend sending a sample to the MSU Diagnostic Services – www.pestid.msu.edu to determine what may be going on. This way you will be able to target the correct pest problem. Directions on how to take a sample can be found on their website.
I suspect one of the needlecast diseases (Rhizosphaera or Stigmina) we find in spruce is the culprit.Before you spray I would recommend sending a sample to the MSU Diagnostic Services – www.pestid.msu.edu to determine what may be going on. This way you will be able to target the correct pest problem. Directions on how to take a sample can be found on their website.
