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30' Mature Blue Spruce dropping needles #751855

Asked May 24, 2021, 3:55 PM EDT

We have several blue spruces in our yard that were planted in 1996. One of these Spruces (pics attached) isn't doing well and we were wondering if there is some treatment or fertilizing we should be doing.

Lake County Ohio

Expert Response

Hello,

It's probable your trees are infected with a fungus that causes premature needle drop, possibly Rhizosphaera kalkhoffii. This condition is referred to as Rhizosphaera needlecast.

Blue spruce trees planted in Ohio are not growing in their native habitat (which is generally mountainous regions) and therefore are often under stress, making them more prone to infection by insects and diseases which healthy trees can fight off. Spruce trees growing very close together may also be more susceptible as they are not getting sufficient air flow to their lower branches. Close proximity can also allow the fungus to spread readily from tree to tree.

It may be possible to have the affected trees treated with a fungicide to slow down the progression of the infection but spruce trees planted in the Midwest are often infected with this fungus.

I would recommend consulting a certified arborist to get a positive diagnosis and suggested treatment options.

If you decide to remove any of your spruce trees and replace them, I would recommend planting trees that are native to Ohio in their place.

More information on Rhizosphaera kalkhoffii and treatment options can be found at this link:

https://woodlandstewards.osu.edu/sites/woodlands/files/imce/3059%20rhizosphera.pdf

You can search for a certified arborist in your area at this site:

https://www.treesaregood.org/findanarborist

This website allows you to enter your zip code and it will provide lists of various plants native to your area, sorted by flowers and grasses, followed by trees.

https://www.nwf.org/nativeplantfinder/

For further assistance you can contact your local extension office at https://lake.osu.edu/

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