Diehl Spruce Tree Yellow Needles - Ask Extension
Over the past few weeks one of our spruce trees has developed yellow needles. This tree is among 7 other trees and is the only one to develop this pro...
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Diehl Spruce Tree Yellow Needles #813275
Asked October 05, 2022, 1:30 PM EDT
Over the past few weeks one of our spruce trees has developed yellow needles. This tree is among 7 other trees and is the only one to develop this problem. The trees are adjacent to black walnut trees. The yellow needles seem to be on old growth. The tree is regularly watered with an irrigation system. I don't see any insects on the tree.
Freeborn County Minnesota
Expert Response
We can't identify what's causing the needle discoloration by viewing the photos. More than one factor may be involved.
Although spruce trees are sensitive to black walnut toxicity, unless the affected tree is closest to the walnut trees, we suppose one or more of the other six spruce trees ought to be showing similar symptoms.
The oldest needles of many conifers yellow at this time of year. However, this normal seasonal color change is usually less noticeable on spruce than other species. Go here to learn about conifer seasonal color change:
https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/fall_needle_drop_a_natural_phenomenon_in_conifers
Needlecast diseases also cause premature yellowing and death of the oldest spruce needles.
If the condition persists, it's probably best to ask a certified arborist to assess the tree's health onsite and recommend a course of action.
If you decide to hire an arborist, the following information may be useful:
https://extension.umn.edu/planting-and-growing-guides/how-hire-tree-care-professional
Although spruce trees are sensitive to black walnut toxicity, unless the affected tree is closest to the walnut trees, we suppose one or more of the other six spruce trees ought to be showing similar symptoms.
The oldest needles of many conifers yellow at this time of year. However, this normal seasonal color change is usually less noticeable on spruce than other species. Go here to learn about conifer seasonal color change:
https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/fall_needle_drop_a_natural_phenomenon_in_conifers
Needlecast diseases also cause premature yellowing and death of the oldest spruce needles.
If the condition persists, it's probably best to ask a certified arborist to assess the tree's health onsite and recommend a course of action.
If you decide to hire an arborist, the following information may be useful:
https://extension.umn.edu/planting-and-growing-guides/how-hire-tree-care-professional
