Blue Spruce Tree Diagnosis - Ask Extension
Hello,
I appreciate your assistance in diagnosing my blue spruce tree. As shown in the attached photograph, the needles are brownish red and easily...
Knowledgebase
Blue Spruce Tree Diagnosis #865040
Asked April 18, 2024, 7:38 PM EDT
Hello,
I appreciate your assistance in diagnosing my blue spruce tree. As shown in the attached photograph, the needles are brownish red and easily fall off. I planted this tree September 2023 and remediated the heavy clay soil with sand and peet moss. I also have installed mulch. The photo is showing the southern facing portion of the tree which appears worse than the north side of the tree. Based on my review of the information on this website, I am guessing it is Winter Damage. I value your opinion and appreciate any advice you can give on whether fertilizing and water will correct this problem or if I should plant a new spruce that is more tolerant to Minnesota.
Thank you!
Hennepin County Minnesota
Expert Response
Have you posed this question prevously? These questions are answered by UMN Extension Master Gardeners located all over the state and are assigned randomly by computer. If you read the Whats Wrong With my Plant, Conifers, I agree with the winter injury diagnosis. Follow the recommendations for preventing Winter Injury in following years.
Is the mulch touching the trunk of the tree? If so, it needs to be pulled back 3 or 4 inches from the trunk. Trees rarely need to be fertilized and all plants need water because of our recent drought conditions. Your spruce should be okay because it is away from other trees and getting good air circulation.
Consult an arborist if you want a further opinion.
Is the mulch touching the trunk of the tree? If so, it needs to be pulled back 3 or 4 inches from the trunk. Trees rarely need to be fertilized and all plants need water because of our recent drought conditions. Your spruce should be okay because it is away from other trees and getting good air circulation.
Consult an arborist if you want a further opinion.
