Pine trees - Ask Extension
Why do I notice so many pine trees that appear to be sparse or dying? Is something going on with pine tree?
Knowledgebase
Pine trees #871567
Asked June 04, 2024, 4:00 PM EDT
Why do I notice so many pine trees that appear to be sparse or dying? Is something going on with pine tree?
Oakland County Michigan
Expert Response
Hello Eileen
You might be noticing blue spruce decline. This is very common in Michigan because Colorado blue spruces are often planted but, are not suited to our humid climate.
https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/what_is_spruce_decline_and_what_should_you_do_about_it
Another issue in parts of Michigan is chlorosis on white pines. White pines need acidic soil to thrive, and if planted in high pH soils will always struggle and look off color, a condition called chlorosis.
There are many other issues that can cause evergreens to look poorly. Salt damage, winter burn, too little or too much water, are examples of stresses that can suddenly show as off color needles and dieback.
https://yardandgarden.extension.iastate.edu/how-to/how-diagnose-problems-trees-landscape
If you would like to attach a couple pictures of the tree in question, one of the whole tree and one a close up of the branch showing the needles and buds, we might be able to be more specific.
Also, here is a helpful article that helps identify the differences between pine, spruce and fir. Each species of tree can be affected by different biotic and abiotic problems. https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/pine_spruce_or_fir_getting_to_know_michigan_evergreen_trees
You might be noticing blue spruce decline. This is very common in Michigan because Colorado blue spruces are often planted but, are not suited to our humid climate.
https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/what_is_spruce_decline_and_what_should_you_do_about_it
Another issue in parts of Michigan is chlorosis on white pines. White pines need acidic soil to thrive, and if planted in high pH soils will always struggle and look off color, a condition called chlorosis.
There are many other issues that can cause evergreens to look poorly. Salt damage, winter burn, too little or too much water, are examples of stresses that can suddenly show as off color needles and dieback.
https://yardandgarden.extension.iastate.edu/how-to/how-diagnose-problems-trees-landscape
If you would like to attach a couple pictures of the tree in question, one of the whole tree and one a close up of the branch showing the needles and buds, we might be able to be more specific.
Also, here is a helpful article that helps identify the differences between pine, spruce and fir. Each species of tree can be affected by different biotic and abiotic problems. https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/pine_spruce_or_fir_getting_to_know_michigan_evergreen_trees
