Alberta Spruce Dying from Bottom Up: Not Spider Mites, Likely Drainage

Pattern Points to Roots

Bottom-up dieback on Alberta spruce isn't spider mites (they cause random patchy browning). It's classic poor drainage/wet feet—roots suffocate in waterlogged soil.

Diagnose and Fix

• Dig near the root zone. If soil is soggy or smells sour, drainage is the issue.
• Amend soil with compost and coarse sand.
• Create a slight mound or install a French drain to redirect water.
• Reduce watering; let soil dry between irrigations.

Fix the water, save the tree.