Why is my Arborvitae Turning Brown?

Why is my Arborvitae Turning Brown?

• Drought:

  Inadequate watering is a major cause of browning. New plants are especially vulnerable because their root systems aren’t fully developed. 

   
• Solution:

  Provide 10 gallons of water every 5 days during dry spells, or ensure at least 1 inch of water per week through rainfall or irrigation. 

   
• Overwatering:

  Excess water can lead to root rot, which also causes browning. 

   
• Solution:

  Ensure the soil is well-draining. If planting, make sure the tree is not planted too deep, as this can trap moisture. 

   

• Winter burn:

  Cold, dry, and windy conditions can dehydrate the foliage, leading to browning. 

   
• Solution:

  Water the tree thoroughly in late fall before freezing temperatures set in, apply a 3-inch layer of mulch to protect the roots, and wrap the tree with burlap for protection. 

   
• Insufficient sunlight:

  Arborvitae need at least six hours of direct sunlight daily;otherwise, the inner branches may turn brown from lack of light 

   
• Solution:

  Prune for light penetration or consider relocating the tree to a sunnier spot.

   

  Contact a Proffesional:

   

  If you have any questions regarding your trees, contact us at Johnson Ops Tree Care. One of our Certified Arborist can meet with you and go over the concern in your landscape.