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Arborvitae dying ? #744571

Asked April 15, 2021, 6:09 PM EDT

Hi, We live in Novi, MI on 9 mile between beck and garfield. On our property line we have arborvitae trees/shrubs that have been thriving for over 20 years. This spring all the shrubs are drying/dying from the ground up in an even line. The weirdest thing to see. All whole tree line is drying up, not just one scrub. We have no idea what could cause this. We have done nothing different in that area. I contacted City of Novi arborist and they recommended I reach out to you. I've attached a photo. Any ideas? Thank you. Pam

Oakland County Michigan

Expert Response

Hello Pam,

I’m sorry to see the problem with your arborvitae. Because of the uniformity of the damage, it appears to be environmental. Could they have been sprayed with a herbicide or perhaps road salt when a nearby road was salted during the winter?

It is difficult to analyze the problem from a photograph. I suggest that you consult the Plant and Pest Diagnostics Lab at MSU Extension to learn the cause of the damage. To learn how to send a sample go to: https://www.canr.msu.edu/pestid/

A certified arborist could diagnose the problem and advise on treatment. To find a certified arborist in your area, go to www.treesaregood.org, the website of the International Society of Arboriculture.

I hope this helps you solve the problem.

Thank you for contacting Ask Extension.

An Ask Extension Expert Replied April 16, 2021, 3:41 PM EDT
Thank you for your response.  We will continue looking for answers.  Thanks for the guidance on finding addition help.

Have a good weekend.



On Friday, April 16, 2021, 03:41:11 PM EDT, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:


The Question Asker Replied April 16, 2021, 4:43 PM EDT

You’re welcome. 

An Ask Extension Expert Replied April 16, 2021, 5:14 PM EDT

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