Arborvitae Row with Center Dieback: Drainage Problem Suspected

Four in the Middle Dying

30-ft row of 10-ft arborvitae in Pacific NW. Center 4 are 80% brown; others have scattered browning. Uniform center decline = localized drainage issue.

Diagnose and Fix

• Check soil in center vs. ends. Dig 12 inches—if center is wetter, water is pooling there.
• Improve drainage: amend with compost/sand, or install a French drain.
• Arborvitae hate wet feet—roots drown, then foliage browns.
• Fertilize all with balanced organic fertilizer.
• Water deeply but infrequently; let soil dry between.

Fix the water, the rest will follow.