Dear Mary A,

Thank you for reaching out to the UVM Extension Master Gardener Program with your question.

In reviewing the photos provided it appears that most of the needle loss is on the lower branches and the side facing the house. The foliage on the upper part of the trees and the outer part of the branches appears healthy. I was surprised to see such large trees planted in the original buckets. You did not say how long ago the trees were planted. Other observations would include that the trees are close in proximity to each other in addition to being close to the house.

As spider mite infestation is common in spruce you were smart to look for spider mites. I think that there may be more than one factor playing a role in the needle loss in your trees. Stressed trees are more susceptible to insect damage and disease. Improper planting and poor site conditions can contribute to plant stress. Other factors would be drought and extreme cold in our Vermont winters. We did have a significant drought here in Vermont last year and are seeing some manifestations of that stress in our trees this year. I think most of the issue for your trees is related to planting and site location. You say they are in the sun but the proximity to each other and the house results in some shading. The shaded sections of the tree would not produce foliage as well as the sun exposed sections so needle loss in those areas would not be unexpected. There can be reflected heat from the house that can result in higher temperature in the branches adjacent to the house that can cause added stress. One of the most common mistakes is not to plan for the mature size of a tree when deciding where to plant. A dwarf alberta spruce can reach a height of 12 feet and a spread of 5 feet. It is difficult to determine from the photos but I am concerned that there is not adequate space for these mature trees both in terms of proximity to the house and to each other. Although dwarf alberta spruce can do well in containers for a few years I am concerned that the presence of the original containers may be interfering with optimal root spread. Trees that have girdled roots can live for a while before the girdled roots can result in tree death. You also mentioned water dripping from the gutters onto the land around the trees. Alberta spruce like well drained soil. The other issue would be that splashing water from the dripping gutters could keep the lower foliage wet which increases the risk for fungal infection such as Rhizosphera needle cast.

I think the most important thing that you can do is to have the trees assessed for girdled roots. If the roots are girdled the trees may not be salvageable. Consider seeking input from a certified arborist who could assess the root system and thoroughly assess the site. The UVM Extension Master Gardener website has a link to help you find a arborist.

www.uvm.edu/mastergardener

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What is Making My Spruce Tree Drop its Needles?