Question
I planted 5 Arborvitae in a row, 3 years ago. I have noticed that the one in the middle has had a lot of dead branches on one area and there is a lot of dead leafs inside by the trunk.  I have also noticed that this tree has seemed to stop growing as fast at the others.  The trees were are planted at the same time. I live in South Carolina and the dirt is sand towards the top then black dirt maybe clay.  

Is this a fungus?  How would you recommend that I treat it?

Thank you for your help.

Answer
Kim

the arborvitae are usually so hearty.  This is relatively rare although not uncommon.

It would seem to me that you have a fungus yes.  If you can look through a eyeglass you would probably see spores regenerating and manifesting on your needles.  It may also be a nematodes although nematodes are usually not attracted to arborvitae roots.

I would recommend a new product called Atomic Grow sold by crowley nursery in Sarasota FL.  www.crowleynursery.net nursery tab.

This product will cleanse the tree to the micron and wash all bacterial and fungus off the tree.  It will raise the brix levels very high at the same time enabling your tree to repair itself.

Good luck

James