Diagnosing Browning Emerald Green Arborvitae in First Year

4-ft Emerald Green arborvitae, planted 1 year ago, browning in middle, slight yellowing on west side (sun 10 AM–dusk). Lost one already. Local nurseries clueless.

Expert "Coach Dave" Causes

• Overwatering: 1–2×/week, 10–15 min max.
• Poor drainage: Soil must be soft, sloped away.
• Nutrient deficiency: Basic evergreen fertilizer helps.

Browning = Spider Mites

1. Cut off brown parts.
2. Spray entire plant with miticide (oil or pyrethrum based).
3. Every 5 days, 2–3 times.
4. Treat surrounding ground too.

Spider mites = #1 cause of arborvitae browning. Fix watering + miticide = solution.