dying ponderosa along roads - Ask Extension
What is causing the dying (browning of needles) of Ponderosa trees, young and old, adjacent to mountain roads? Most recently traveled was Big Thompso...
Knowledgebase
dying ponderosa along roads #870662
Asked May 29, 2024, 8:29 PM EDT
What is causing the dying (browning of needles) of Ponderosa trees, young and old, adjacent to mountain roads? Most recently traveled was Big Thompson Canyon. One "row" back or so the trees appear to be healthy. Absorption and re-radiation of heat from roads, vehicle exhaust pollution, tire/road material pollution, road salt, other?
Thank you,
Tom Chamberlin
Larimer County Colorado
Expert Response
Hi Tom,
It's hard to say, but likely a combination of mag chloride salts from road de-icer, stress, drought, and possibly pollution.
I would assume that de-icing salts are probably the biggest cause because trees in the row behind (as you observed) are more healthy.
It's hard to say, but likely a combination of mag chloride salts from road de-icer, stress, drought, and possibly pollution.
I would assume that de-icing salts are probably the biggest cause because trees in the row behind (as you observed) are more healthy.
