Spruce dying from the inside out - Ask Extension
We have lived in our home since 2019. Our backyard spruce was probably around 8 feet when we moved in and is now closer to 13 feet. Late this summer w...
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Spruce dying from the inside out #887751
Asked October 11, 2024, 3:00 PM EDT
We have lived in our home since 2019. Our backyard spruce was probably around 8 feet when we moved in and is now closer to 13 feet. Late this summer we noticed our spruce tree's needles were turned brown on some of the branches closest to the trunk. I read online that it could be needle cast. We have not done any counter measures, but it does seem to be getting worse. I'm hoping a volunteer could take a look and recommend a solution. Thank you in advance!
Larimer County Colorado
Expert Response
Hi Katie,
This actually looks like normal needle shedding - the inner needles of spruce shed after a couple of years. Also, the innermost canopy is the most shaded, so those needles are not providing any benefit by photosynthesizing, but they still lose moisture and the tree needs to support them. The tree will naturally shed needles that are not providing overall benefit.
In drier years, there may be more needle shed than others. Spruce tend to be high water-using trees, so providing regular water ALL YEAR is essential (including in fall and winter). These trees don't adjust well to fluctuating soil moisture. As we get into colder months, try to water twice per month on days when it's above 40 degrees.
As the needles shed, you can leave them below the tree as a natural mulch. This will provide organic matter and help with soil moisture retention.
This actually looks like normal needle shedding - the inner needles of spruce shed after a couple of years. Also, the innermost canopy is the most shaded, so those needles are not providing any benefit by photosynthesizing, but they still lose moisture and the tree needs to support them. The tree will naturally shed needles that are not providing overall benefit.
In drier years, there may be more needle shed than others. Spruce tend to be high water-using trees, so providing regular water ALL YEAR is essential (including in fall and winter). These trees don't adjust well to fluctuating soil moisture. As we get into colder months, try to water twice per month on days when it's above 40 degrees.
As the needles shed, you can leave them below the tree as a natural mulch. This will provide organic matter and help with soil moisture retention.
Thank you.
From: ask=<personal data hidden> on behalf of Ask Extension
Sent: Monday, October 14, 2024 11:18 AM
To: Katie Barron
Subject: Re: Spruce dying from the inside out (#0157667)
Sent: Monday, October 14, 2024 11:18 AM
To: Katie Barron
Subject: Re: Spruce dying from the inside out (#0157667)
