Winter-Damaged Dwarf Conifers: Mite Check and Patience

Hidden Culprit: Spruce Spider Mites

Alberta spruces with dead back sides—often blamed on winter—are frequently mite-damaged. Mites cause interior browning that mimics winter burn.

Verify

1. Tap live branches near damage over white paper.
2. Look for tiny red/black moving specks.
3. If present: spray registered miticide.

Recovery

Existing fertilizer regime is adequate. These slow growers take years to refill. Do not add more fertilizer spikes.