Hi, Rose

Can you tell me if you have irrigation running under it? Do you see anything irregular with the base of the trunk? How quickly did this dieoff occur?

On Thursday, July 20, 2023, 1:38 PM, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:

Hi, Rose

I was able to show the plant pathologist your photo he had an immediate answer. 

Going off only the information you provided, his response that it is likely an effect from the 2021 freeze. Can you take photos of the trunk where the limbs come out? Inspect all around and see if you find anything that stands out that could be damage or abnormal growth. Be sure they are in focus and let me know what you find. 

On Saturday, July 22, 2023, 3:11 PM, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:

Hi, Ma'am!

These photos seem to confirm freeze damage, but I'm waiting on the pathologist response for a final answer. I should hear back very soon!

On Thursday, July 27, 2023, 3:47 PM, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:

Hi, Rose

Thanks for your patience. I've been in and out of the office. Interestingly, two different pathologists had slightly differing comments on your trees. I'll convey what they said below, but you may want to find a reputable, certified arborist to come take a look. You can find such a professional at treesaregood.org. Just input your zip code and a local list will come up.  They are certified and will be able to help guide you on this... and also establish a baseline, in case more issues occur.

The first pathologist stated that the 3rd close up you attached here looks like a remnant of some fungi. As such, the rapid collapse of that branch is not surprising. There have been poor healthy symptoms that have gone on well before the decline. 

You can also look try to assess if the vascular system was cut off. For example, if the root ball was affected by a dramatic stress. He has seen an arborvitae collapse after roots were exposed to extreme cold. 

The 1st  pic of the base of the tree shows something happening. Could the roots be girdling? The grass is brown around it... was there any herbicide applied?

All in all, a certified arborist may be able to assess the situation better.

Feel free to update us if they can assist you on site!

On Thursday, August 17, 2023, 1:17 PM, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:

Ok. Just watch what is happening at the bottom of that tree. You may want a consult since it could mean more issues. They may have advise before the tree declines even more.

Good Luck!