Question
We have beautiful leylands maybe 40` tall and this winter we noticed a dead streak running up the back of one.It has now covered a very wide width and is spreading. What is this and how can we stop it? My husband has pruned out a lot but it is hard to reach the top. We live in Durham,NC and it is April 5th.

Answer
Without looking at the tree it maybe difficult to diagnose the problem. I would suggest that you contact the NC Forest Service and ask one of their Foresters to come take a look. Their main office is in Raleigh where they have a Pest Management Specialist. I would call him and ask for assistance. Pest Control: Rob Trickel 919-857-4858. Tell him I sent you--I think he will remember me I had the same position here in Alabama before I retired three years ago.
If you can not get him here is the web link to their Contact page and the county office numbers. http://www.dfr.state.nc.us/Contacts/contacts_main.htm