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Bottom half of row of arborvitae appears dead: will they grow back or are they dying? And why? #628818

Asked April 29, 2020, 10:30 AM EDT

Hi, The bottom part of my row of arborvitaes is dead looking. It happened this last winter. Are they dying ? Or is it just the bottom that died - and I can trim that off and the tops will stay alive and green (and they’ll look like green popsicles)? If dying, can you tell me why are they dying? I’d want to replace with new Techny Arborvitae but not if the reason of death is something in the soil that will kill any replacements I plant. It’s interesting how symmetrical the dead part is across my row of arborvitae- it’s the same height/amount that is dead on all of them. (And is the exact same situation for my neighbor across the street with their row of arborvitae.) what is going on? Thank you for your advise.

Hennepin County Minnesota

Expert Response

There are several reasons that these shrubs die from the bottom up. It could be too much water causing root rot. It could be grazing rabbits. It is less likely to be an insect pest given the pattern. And it could also be winter kill. This type of problem is best solved by an on-site visit by a certified arborist. The following website gives info on finding a certified arborist. See: https://extension.umn.edu/planting-and-growing-guides/how-hire-tree-care-professional
MaryKay, Master Gardener, Tree Care Advisor Replied April 29, 2020, 12:04 PM EDT

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