Knowledgebase

Spruce tree needles turning brown #604080

Asked October 24, 2019, 4:33 PM EDT

We planted a small Fat Albert variety spruce in our front yard several months ago. It gets sunlight for half the day, and before the rains and cooler weather started it was watered frequently. In the last several weeks, it appears to be turning brown from the inside out. Can you point me to a possible reason for this? Too much/little water? Too much/little sunlight? Transplant shock? Any help would be great, pictures are attached. Thanks.

Clackamas County Oregon

Expert Response

Evergreen conifers naturally drop the oldest needles each fall, so it is difficult to determine if yours is natural, or transplant shock, or some problem with planting or watering.
Consider providing a photo from more distance to show the wider area.
Also, tell more about planting. Did you amend the soil in the hole? How did the rootball appear when planted? (Root bound?) Do you have photos of the plant at various planting stages?
Jacki D., Master Gardener Diagnostician Volunteer (Washington, Multnomah and Clackamas Counties) Oregon State University Extension Service Volunteer Metro Master Gardeners (http://metromastergardeners.org/) Replied October 29, 2019, 4:58 PM EDT
I appreciate your response. But since I emailed you, I spoke to a few others all of whom were of the opinion that it's just the natural cycle for the tree for this time of year.

Thanks.
The Question Asker Replied October 29, 2019, 5:33 PM EDT

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