Reviving brown yews - Ask Extension
Hi, I’m seeking advice on options to revive some brown portions of yew shrubs planted about 2 years ago. In the attached photos you can see the issu...
Knowledgebase
Reviving brown yews #840903
Asked July 16, 2023, 11:25 AM EDT
Hi, I’m seeking advice on options to revive some brown portions of yew shrubs planted about 2 years ago. In the attached photos you can see the issue is more acute in one yew, affecting almost the whole side. On the others the brown is isolated toward the bottom, evidenced by fallen brown needles.
I am observing that much of the mulch from around the yews has eroded since they were planted, and a ‘hump’ is visible on the ground above the root balls. So my layperson theory is the roots are stressed and would benefit from a covering of compost and mulch material.
Thanks in advance for any advice or insight you can provide!!
Hennepin County Minnesota
Expert Response
This past winter has been tough on evergreens because of the summer drought. Evergreens need to have moisture to make it through They need to be watered until the ground freezes. Here us some reading material for you. The article from U of W goes into the pruning process.
Protecting trees and shrubs in winter | UMN Extension
Winter Burn – Wisconsin Horticulture
Having the root ball exposed is never a good thing. If need be refill the area soil to just cover the root ball. You should re-mulch the area or at least around the yews, to help retain the soil moisture.
Give them some TLC with fertilizing and watering, but don't apply fertilizer in the late fall because you don't want new growth as winter approaches.
The yew in the right picture will probably need to be replaced.
Protecting trees and shrubs in winter | UMN Extension
Winter Burn – Wisconsin Horticulture
Having the root ball exposed is never a good thing. If need be refill the area soil to just cover the root ball. You should re-mulch the area or at least around the yews, to help retain the soil moisture.
Give them some TLC with fertilizing and watering, but don't apply fertilizer in the late fall because you don't want new growth as winter approaches.
The yew in the right picture will probably need to be replaced.
