Arborvitae - Ask Extension
Good evening,
We have 19 arborvitaes that are 3-4 years old. This spring when we unwrapped them the insides were brown and the tips are green. We ask...
Knowledgebase
Arborvitae #870856
Asked May 30, 2024, 7:33 PM EDT
Good evening,
We have 19 arborvitaes that are 3-4 years old. This spring when we unwrapped them the insides were brown and the tips are green. We asked a local garden shop and were instructed to put organic fertilizer down. We did and have seen no change. We wrap them every winter and keep them clean around the base and clip off a dead ends. What causes this? They look bad up close for sure. What can we do to fix this and how can we prevent this next year? We have never had this happen. Thank you in advance!
Dakota County Minnesota
Expert Response
Good Morning Christine,
Thank you for contacting the U of M Extension Service.
Please click on the following link from the U of M Extension Yard and Garden website:
Here is a link about arborvitae care: https://extension.psu.edu/the-mighty-arborvitae#:~:text=Arborvitae%20Care,need%20irrigation%20during%20dry%20spells.
The drought the past few years has had a huge affect on trees. I am wondering if you watered them during the drought. Also, you might consider a wood mulch around the base, but a few inches away from the stems. The mulch would keep the soil cool and retain the moisture to the plants.
Good Luck!
