Hello!

It is clear from your photos and description that your young hemlock is struggling. It sounds like it was already having some issues and then this especially cold, windy Michigan winter has affected it further. Could you provide just a little bit more information? Is it possible to take some up-close pictures of top and undersides of the branches? A picture of the base of the tree, where it meets the ground, would also be helpful. And, one more picture – step away from the tree and take a picture of its location and any buildings, streets or patios that are nearby?

There are a couple of issues that cause browning and needle drop on hemlocks. You may already be aware of looking for hemlock woolly adelgid presence: https://www.canr.msu.edu/resources/hemlock_woolly_adelgid_e3300 Look carefully at the base of the needles where they attach to the woody portion of the branch. Often it is easier to see the hemlock woolly adelgid on the undersides of the shoots, but they can also be seen from the top of the branch too.

Another issue that can cause browning and dropping of branches is Fabrella Needle Blight. This also shows up on the underside of the branches on either side of the main vein of the needles. The small dots are fruiting fungal bodies. https://extension.psu.edu/hemlock-diseases

There are likely other environmental causes for the issues that your hemlock is experiencing. Hemlocks like consistent moisture, protection from drying winds and well-draining soil. In southern Michigan we have experienced drought conditions during the summer months. Could you tell just a little bit about the area in which it is planted (soil/wind/drainage) and any supplemental watering it has received?

I’m looking forward to hearing back from you so we can help your young hemlock!

Hi Linda - attached are the images you suggested. I’ll second a second email with location images. The soil around the tree is fairly rich and in the summer surrounded by native plants. We did provide supplemental watering in the dry months, and also a fertilizer in the spring and fall (provided by an arborist). 

Here are the images showing the location. To the west of the tree through the gate is an arboretum. To the east is the patio and house. 

Here are the images showing the location. To the west of the tree through the gate is an arboretum. To the east is the patio and house. 

Thank you for your great pictures! (Especially the fun pup picture!) Your extra information helps to eliminate several potential issues. There is no visual evidence of hemlock woolly adelgid, needle blight or salt damage. Most soils in Michigan provide adequate nutrients to meet the needs of tree and shrub growth. Learn more about fertilization here: https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/files/Nutrition_and_fertilization_BertCreggfinal.pdf It is always a good idea to get a soil test so that you know exactly what nutrients, if any, are needed. This is especially true with a young tree or one that is experiencing stress. Soil testing information is here: https://homesoiltest.msu.edu

The brown foliage on your tree appears to be ‘winter burn’, browning and dying of the foliage from the tips inward. Several causes include cold temperatures, winter winds, and increased light (nearby deciduous trees cannot offer canopy protection in winter). Hemlock trees have a shallow root system and during winter these are frozen and unable to replace water to the tree. Here is a great article that you may find helpful.
https://forestrynews.blogs.govdelivery.com/2024/10/18/keep-watering-in-fall-to-protect-trees/

As the article notes, we often see winter burning through April. It looks like you have mulch under the tree, is it possible to offer protection for the next several weeks with a burlap tent?

One additional note, sometimes animals can cause browning issues when urinating on young trees before they are able to develop an extensive root system. Obviously, your sweet doggo is innocent- just look at that sweet face! - but watch for any signs of other dogs or wildlife who may visit your yard.

Hopefully, you will see new growth in the spring. Thank you for contacting Ask Extension with your question. Please reach out again if you need any further information.