Knowledgebase
Austrian Pine Needles Turning Yellow #877826
Asked July 18, 2024, 5:22 PM EDT
I notice two weeks ago that my Austrian Pine (I think) needles were turning yellow. I live in a 6 year old community where everyone has the same pine tree planted by the builder. I looked around the neighborhood and my tree is the only one with yellowed needles. It is July and my husband waters the property 3 times a day for 3 minutes each time. I checked the soil with a screw driver and found the soil moist on the front of the tree closest to the front lawn but the back of the tree was dry. I found a small drip in the front near but not on the trunk.There is a layer of mulch and lots of pine needles under the tree. The bark looks great and no signs of bugs. I have been caring for the tree for 3 years and this is the first time I have seen this on my tree. I love the tree and want to address the issue right away. What do you think it could be? And what can I do?
Jefferson County Colorado
Expert Response
Good afternoon!
It looks like it is not the new growth that is browning - which is good! Is the browning only in that one area? Or is it spread throughout the other side of the tree as well?
It does look like there is some banding on the needles which could be a sign of some fungal diseases. We have a diagnostic volunteer team at our office (at the Jefferson County Fairgrounds; 15200 W 6th Ave Suite C, Golden, CO 80401) if you would like to bring a sample by we can take a look at the needles under the microscope and see if something is there. We do have a volunteer signed up to come in on Thursday if you wanted to bring a sample by then or on Wednesday!
Thanks for reaching out,
Rachel Durkan
Hi Rachel,
Yes the browning is on the other side of the tree as well. If by banding you mean lines on the needles yes it does have that. If I go to Golden today or Thursday what time is there someone there?
How do treat a fungal disease if I don’t get to Golden?
Diane Mangam
If you come in today there is a volunteer here this morning from about 8-11 I would say. Thursday the volunteer should be here in the morning as well from 9-12ish.
Our office is open from 8-4:30p Tuesday to Friday if you are unable to stop by during those two times!
Treatment depends on the type of disease - I would suggest confirming a diagnosis before treating so you are ensuring you use the most effective method possible.
Thanks for reaching out!
Rachel
