Weeping Norway Spruce dying off at the bottom. - Ask Extension
Hi, We planted a Weeping Norway Spruce a year ago and it was doing really well until this winter when we noticed the bottom third dropped its needles....
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Weeping Norway Spruce dying off at the bottom. #868891
Asked May 17, 2024, 1:01 PM EDT
Hi,
We planted a Weeping Norway Spruce a year ago and it was doing really well until this winter when we noticed the bottom third dropped its needles. Do you know what could have caused this? There appears to be new growth at the top this spring. Can we re-plant it deeper to hide some of the bare trunk?
Thanks,
Jen
Hennepin County Minnesota
Expert Response
I cannot tell if the tree is diseased without a closeup of the part green needles along the bottom. I suspect there is a disease process happening since there are needles dropping at the top as well as the bottom. However that could also be a sign of severe stress. For more information on what to look for as far as disease-see the following website:
https://apps.extension.umn.edu/garden/diagnose/plant/evergreen/spruce/branchesdead.html
Second the tree is planted too near the house and deck. This restricts the water and sunlight. Replanting it deeper is not going to solve the issues and will probably kill it. As it matures the drooping branches may cover the lower area. I suggest that you dig it up and plant it in a better location if no disease found upon closer inspection.
https://apps.extension.umn.edu/garden/diagnose/plant/evergreen/spruce/branchesdead.html
Second the tree is planted too near the house and deck. This restricts the water and sunlight. Replanting it deeper is not going to solve the issues and will probably kill it. As it matures the drooping branches may cover the lower area. I suggest that you dig it up and plant it in a better location if no disease found upon closer inspection.
