Hi I purchased two Colorado Spruce from my local Home Depot 2 months ago. One has new growth on it the other is starting to developing light brown on some of the needles. The trees were planted 13 feet a part they both got a bit of Miracle Grow mixed in the soil when they were planted. Is the browning from to much water or to little? Or is it some other factor? Thanks Kevin |
Browning needles could indicate water stress or might be a sign of an insect called the spruce needle miner. If insects are present you'll see a tiny hole in each affected needle. Carefully inspect the needles with a magnifying glass. If you see no holes in the leaves, the browning is probably caused by insufficient water. To keep your spruces healthy, water them deeply once each week during the growing season. The easiest way to do this is to make a watering well or water basin beneath each tree. Fill the basin with water, allow to drain, then fill it a second time. This method of watering concentrates the moisture directly over the rootmass and allows it to trickle down and wet the entire rootmass. Best wishes with your spruces! |