Knowledgebase

Black Hills Spruce Issues #749514

Asked May 12, 2021, 3:00 PM EDT

Hello, I have a couple of questions regarding spruce trees that were planted last summer. So I planted approximately 40 trees last summer into fall and just before Winter I wrapped most of them in burlap to help protect. This Spring when I unwrapped them I noticed that a couple of them lost most of their needles but still appear to be alive. The main trunk is soft and appears healthy. Will it grow them back if it stays watered? Pictures attached. Second question, A couple of the same trees kept the needles, but they all turned brown. Will this tree green back up if kept watered? Or are they gone? The needles are not falling off, again the main trunk and branches seem alive. Thanks in advance for answering my questions. I think they are done for, but don't want to give up on them if there is a chance. I have additional pictures if needed. Thank You! Todd Huebl

Chisago County Minnesota

Expert Response

Thank you for writing.

The trees that have new needles are alive but weakened.  They are susceptible to disease that can spread to other spruce.  The trees with all dead needles are probably too far gone from dehydration or scald in the winter. 

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