Drawn pine - Ask Extension
My drawf pine has turned brown in the last week. It was planted 1 1/2 years ago. I have been watering regularly during these hot dry days. All othe...
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Drawn pine #881179
Asked August 12, 2024, 2:27 PM EDT
My drawf pine has turned brown in the last week. It was planted 1 1/2 years ago. I have been watering regularly during these hot dry days. All other plants in landscaping are doing well. Is it a goner? Should I trim it back and hope for the best?
Thanks!
Franklin County Ohio
Expert Response
Hi Tina,
These photos look like this is a young tree. I can’t tell for sure exactly what is causing this problem. There are a few tree diseases and fungus that can cause browning needles. Most do not “kill” the tree but to better determine what the disease it is I recommend you have a professional look at it.
In the meantime I see dark colored mulch around the base of the tree. This could be causing a bit of root rot with the heat we’ve been having.
I would pull that mulch away from the tree truck about 3-5 inches so air can circulate and keep it cooler.
I also suggest a soil test. The soil condition can be a factor. Your other plantings may have different soil requirements. You can obtain a soil test kit at your area extension office. The report you get will give you tips on that enhancements you may need to make.
Use this link to learn more.
https://agsci.psu.edu/aasl/soil-testing
Use this link to get more information on dwarf pine and their growing habits. https://www.forestwildlife.org/how-to-treat-a-pine-tree-that-is-turning-brown/
I would not give up on this tree. As fall approaches the needles will drop and it’s likely new growth will come about before frost.
Thank you.
These photos look like this is a young tree. I can’t tell for sure exactly what is causing this problem. There are a few tree diseases and fungus that can cause browning needles. Most do not “kill” the tree but to better determine what the disease it is I recommend you have a professional look at it.
In the meantime I see dark colored mulch around the base of the tree. This could be causing a bit of root rot with the heat we’ve been having.
I would pull that mulch away from the tree truck about 3-5 inches so air can circulate and keep it cooler.
I also suggest a soil test. The soil condition can be a factor. Your other plantings may have different soil requirements. You can obtain a soil test kit at your area extension office. The report you get will give you tips on that enhancements you may need to make.
Use this link to learn more.
https://agsci.psu.edu/aasl/soil-testing
Use this link to get more information on dwarf pine and their growing habits. https://www.forestwildlife.org/how-to-treat-a-pine-tree-that-is-turning-brown/
I would not give up on this tree. As fall approaches the needles will drop and it’s likely new growth will come about before frost.
Thank you.
