Diagnosing Browning Arborvitae Planted Last Fall

Assessing the Damage

Arborvitae planted last October in Connecticut show browning at the bottom and throughout the middle after a mild winter. Uniform bottom browning suggests splash-back of chemicals or deicing salts. Middle browning is normal seasonal needle drop.

Recovery Steps

• Water deeply once a week during dry spells—use a soaker hose.
• Apply a granular organic fertilizer in spring to stimulate new growth.
• Mulch 2-3 inches with shredded bark (keep away from trunks).
• If salt exposure is suspected, irrigate heavily to leach salts from the root zone.

Spider Mite Check

The previous Alberta spruces had spider mites. Inspect arborvitae for stippling and fine webbing. If mites are present, spray with horticultural oil in early spring and again in fall.

Arborvitae are resilient. With proper care, they'll fill in and thrive.